2008 BMW X5 vs. 1996 Lotus Elan
To start off, 2008 BMW X5 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 4,398 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 BMW X5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW X5 (316 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 153 more horse power than 1996 Lotus Elan. (163 HP @ 6600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW X5 should accelerate faster than 1996 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW X5 weights approximately 1175 kg more than 1996 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 BMW X5 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Lotus Elan. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 BMW X5 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 X5 (440 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 236 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Lotus Elan. (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2008 BMW X5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Lotus Elan. 2008 BMW X5 has automatic transmission and 1996 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1996 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 BMW X5 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW X5 | 1996 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | BMW | Lotus |
| Model | X5 | Elan |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4398 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 316 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 440 Nm | 204 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2195 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1710 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2260 mm |
