2009 BMW 335 vs. 1974 Lotus Elite
To start off, 2009 BMW 335 is newer by 35 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 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW 335 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 335 (301 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 159 more horse power than 1974 Lotus Elite. (142 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 335 should accelerate faster than 1974 Lotus Elite. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 335 weights approximately 490 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 2009 BMW 335 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, 2009 BMW 335 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, 2009 BMW 335 (407 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 230 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Lotus Elite. (177 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 335 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Lotus Elite.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 335 | 1974 Lotus Elite | |
| Make | BMW | Lotus |
| Model | 335 | Elite |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2979 cc | 1973 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 301 HP | 142 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 407 Nm | 177 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 95.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89.6 mm | 69.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 8.4:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 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 | 1550 kg | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1220 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2490 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 67 L |
