1959 Lotus Seven vs. 2011 BMW 123
To start off, 2011 BMW 123 is newer by 52 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Lotus Seven. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Lotus Seven would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 BMW 123 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW 123 (202 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 128 more horse power than 1959 Lotus Seven. (74 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW 123 should accelerate faster than 1959 Lotus Seven. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW 123 weights approximately 1195 kg more than 1959 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:
| 1959 Lotus Seven | 2011 BMW 123 | |
| Make | Lotus | BMW |
| Model | Seven | 123 |
| Year Released | 1959 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1098 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 202 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 420 kg | 1615 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3280 mm | 4360 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1350 mm | 1748 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1411 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2660 mm |
