2008 BMW X3 vs. 1969 Lotus Elan
To start off, 2008 BMW X3 is newer by 39 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW X3 (201 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 83 more horse power than 1969 Lotus Elan. (118 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1969 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW X3 weights approximately 1037 kg more than 1969 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1969 Lotus Elan. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 BMW X3 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 X3 (410 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 264 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Lotus Elan. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW X3 | 1969 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | BMW | Lotus |
| Model | X3 | Elan |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1969 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2993 cc | 1558 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 410 Nm | 146 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 72.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 210 km/hour | 190 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1926 kg | 889 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 59 L |
