2008 BMW M5 vs. 1974 Lotus Elite
To start off, 2008 BMW M5 is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Lotus Elite. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Lotus Elite would be higher. At 4,999 cc (10 cylinders), 2008 BMW M5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW M5 (500 HP @ 7750 RPM) has 358 more horse power than 1974 Lotus Elite. (142 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW M5 should accelerate faster than 1974 Lotus Elite. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW M5 weights approximately 695 kg more than 1974 Lotus Elite. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 BMW M5 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1974 Lotus Elite. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 BMW M5 will offer significantly more control. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2008 BMW M5 (519 Nm @ 6100 RPM) has 342 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Lotus Elite. (177 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2008 BMW M5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Lotus Elite.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW M5 | 1974 Lotus Elite | |
| Make | BMW | Lotus |
| Model | M5 | Elite |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4999 cc | 1973 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 10 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 500 HP | 142 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7750 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 519 Nm | 177 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 6100 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 8.4:1 |
| Top Speed | 245 km/hour | 190 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1755 kg | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1220 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2490 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 67 L |
