1961 Lotus Seven vs. 2012 BMW 650
To start off, 2012 BMW 650 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 4,400 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 BMW 650 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW 650 (400 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 362 more horse power than 1961 Lotus Seven. (38 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW 650 should accelerate faster than 1961 Lotus Seven. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW 650 weights approximately 1623 kg more than 1961 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:
| 1961 Lotus Seven | 2012 BMW 650 | |
| Make | Lotus | BMW |
| Model | Seven | 650 |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 997 cc | 4400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 400 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 432 kg | 2055 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3360 mm | 4894 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1894 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1100 mm | 1369 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2855 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 29 L | 70 L |
