2009 BMW 650 vs. 1989 Lotus Elan
To start off, 2009 BMW 650 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 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 197 more horse power than 1989 Lotus Elan. (165 HP @ 6600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 650 should accelerate faster than 1989 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 650 weights approximately 365 kg more than 1989 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 BMW 650 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 650. 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 650 (490 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 289 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Lotus Elan. (201 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 650 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
2009 BMW 650 | 1989 Lotus Elan | |
Make | BMW | Lotus |
Model | 650 | Elan |
Year Released | 2009 | 1989 |
Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4799 cc | 1588 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 362 HP | 165 HP |
Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6600 RPM |
Torque | 490 Nm | 201 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 8.2:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1020 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4830 mm | 3810 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1380 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1860 mm | 1240 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2790 mm | 2260 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 65 L |