2009 BMW 118 vs. 1991 Lotus Elan
To start off, 2009 BMW 118 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 BMW 118 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Lotus Elan (160 HP) has 26 more horse power than 2009 BMW 118. (134 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1991 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 2009 BMW 118. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 118 weights approximately 388 kg more than 1991 Lotus Elan.
Because 2009 BMW 118 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2009 BMW 118. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 Lotus Elan, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2009 BMW 118 (180 Nm) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Lotus Elan. (143 Nm). This means 2009 BMW 118 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Lotus Elan. 2009 BMW 118 has automatic transmission and 1991 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1991 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 BMW 118 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2009 BMW 118 | 1991 Lotus Elan | |
Make | BMW | Lotus |
Model | 118 | Elan |
Year Released | 2009 | 1991 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1588 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 134 HP | 160 HP |
Torque | 180 Nm | 143 Nm |
Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 80 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 79 mm |
Top Speed | 204 km/hour | 196 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 997 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 3810 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1750 mm | 1240 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2260 mm |