1961 Lotus Seven vs. 2013 BMW 5 Series
To start off, 2013 BMW 5 Series is newer by 52 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 4,395 cc (8 cylinders), 2013 BMW 5 Series is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 BMW 5 Series (439 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 401 more horse power than 1961 Lotus Seven. (38 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 BMW 5 Series should accelerate faster than 1961 Lotus Seven. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 BMW 5 Series weights approximately 1548 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. 2013 BMW 5 Series 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. 2013 BMW 5 Series will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Lotus Seven | 2013 BMW 5 Series | |
| Make | Lotus | BMW |
| Model | Seven | 5 Series |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 997 cc | 4395 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 439 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 8-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 432 kg | 1980 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3360 mm | 4905 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 2094 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1100 mm | 1464 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2968 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 29 L | 70 L |
