2009 BMW 318 vs. 1989 Lotus Elan
To start off, 2009 BMW 318 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Lotus Elan (165 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 2009 BMW 318. (141 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 2009 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 318 weights approximately 485 kg more than 1989 Lotus Elan.
Because 2009 BMW 318 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 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 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 318 (300 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 99 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Lotus Elan. (201 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
2009 BMW 318 | 1989 Lotus Elan | |
Make | BMW | Lotus |
Model | 318 | Elan |
Year Released | 2009 | 1989 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
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 | 141 HP | 165 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6600 RPM |
Torque | 300 Nm | 201 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 16.0:1 | 8.2:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1505 kg | 1020 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 3810 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1240 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2260 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 65 L |