1958 BMW 501 vs. 1969 Lotus Seven
To start off, 1969 Lotus Seven is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 BMW 501. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 BMW 501 would be higher. At 3,168 cc (8 cylinders), 1958 BMW 501 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1958 BMW 501 (138 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1969 Lotus Seven. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1958 BMW 501 should accelerate faster than 1969 Lotus Seven. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1958 BMW 501 weights approximately 829 kg more than 1969 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. Let's talk about torque, 1958 BMW 501 (222 Nm) has 99 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Lotus Seven. (123 Nm). This means 1958 BMW 501 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Lotus Seven.
Compare all specifications:
1958 BMW 501 | 1969 Lotus Seven | |
Make | BMW | Lotus |
Model | 501 | Seven |
Year Released | 1958 | 1969 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3168 cc | 1558 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 114 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 222 Nm | 123 Nm |
Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 77.6 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1405 kg | 576 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 3380 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1560 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 950 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2240 mm |