1963 Lotus Seven vs. 2012 BMW M3
To start off, 2012 BMW M3 is newer by 49 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1963 Lotus Seven. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1963 Lotus Seven would be higher. At 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 376 more horse power than 1963 Lotus Seven. (38 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1963 Lotus Seven. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW M3 weights approximately 1225 kg more than 1963 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:
| 1963 Lotus Seven | 2012 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Lotus | BMW |
| Model | Seven | M3 |
| Year Released | 1963 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 997 cc | 3999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 414 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 8300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| 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 Weight | 430 kg | 1655 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3360 mm | 4615 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1803 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1100 mm | 1424 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2761 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 29 L | 63 L |
