1959 Lotus Seven vs. 2011 BMW 550
To start off, 2011 BMW 550 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 4,400 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 BMW 550 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW 550 (400 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 364 more horse power than 1959 Lotus Seven. (36 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW 550 should accelerate faster than 1959 Lotus Seven. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW 550 weights approximately 1855 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.
Because 2011 BMW 550 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1959 Lotus Seven. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 BMW 550 will offer significantly more control. 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. 2011 BMW 550 has automatic transmission and 1959 Lotus Seven has manual transmission. 1959 Lotus Seven will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 BMW 550 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Lotus Seven | 2011 BMW 550 | |
| Make | Lotus | BMW |
| Model | Seven | 550 |
| Year Released | 1959 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 947 cc | 4400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 36 HP | 400 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 440 kg | 2295 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3280 mm | 4999 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1350 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 3071 mm |
