1961 Lotus Seven vs. 2012 BMW 525
To start off, 2012 BMW 525 is newer by 51 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Lotus Seven. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Lotus Seven would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW 525 (217 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 179 more horse power than 1961 Lotus Seven. (38 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW 525 should accelerate faster than 1961 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. 2012 BMW 525 has automatic transmission and 1961 Lotus Seven has manual transmission. 1961 Lotus Seven will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 BMW 525 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Lotus Seven | 2012 BMW 525 | |
| Make | Lotus | BMW |
| Model | Seven | 525 |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 997 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3360 mm | 4907 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1100 mm | 1462 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2968 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 29 L | 70 L |
