1959 Lotus Seven vs. 2012 BMW 320
To start off, 2012 BMW 320 is newer by 53 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), 2012 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW 320 (182 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 146 more horse power than 1959 Lotus Seven. (36 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 1959 Lotus Seven.
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 | 2012 BMW 320 | |
| Make | Lotus | BMW |
| Model | Seven | 320 |
| Year Released | 1959 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 947 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 36 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3280 mm | 4624 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1350 mm | 1811 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1384 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2810 mm |
