1956 BMW 501 vs. 1961 Lotus Seven
To start off, 1961 Lotus Seven is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 BMW 501. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 BMW 501 would be higher. At 3,166 cc (8 cylinders), 1956 BMW 501 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1956 BMW 501 (138 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1961 Lotus Seven. (85 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1956 BMW 501 should accelerate faster than 1961 Lotus Seven. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1956 BMW 501 weights approximately 961 kg more than 1961 Lotus Seven. 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1956 BMW 501 | 1961 Lotus Seven | |
| Make | BMW | Lotus |
| Model | 501 | Seven |
| Year Released | 1956 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3166 cc | 1340 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1405 kg | 444 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 3360 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1490 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1100 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2240 mm |
