2009 BMW 650 vs. 1966 Lotus Elan
To start off, 2009 BMW 650 is newer by 43 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 4,799 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 BMW 650 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 650 (362 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 258 more horse power than 1966 Lotus Elan. (104 HP @ 6250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 650 should accelerate faster than 1966 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 650 weights approximately 719 kg more than 1966 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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. 2009 BMW 650 has automatic transmission and 1966 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1966 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 BMW 650 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 650 | 1966 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | BMW | Lotus |
| Model | 650 | Elan |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1966 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4799 cc | 1558 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 362 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 190 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1415 kg | 696 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4830 mm | 3700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1380 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1860 mm | 1180 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2790 mm | 2240 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 45 L |
