1968 Lotus 49 vs. 2011 BMW 530
To start off, 2011 BMW 530 is newer by 43 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Lotus 49. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Lotus 49 would be higher. Both 1968 Lotus 49 and 2011 BMW 530 are equipped with a 2,993 cc engine. In terms of performance, 1968 Lotus 49 (405 HP @ 9000 RPM) has 149 more horse power than 2011 BMW 530. (256 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1968 Lotus 49 should accelerate faster than 2011 BMW 530. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW 530 weights approximately 1274 kg more than 1968 Lotus 49.
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. 2011 BMW 530 has automatic transmission and 1968 Lotus 49 has manual transmission. 1968 Lotus 49 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 BMW 530 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1968 Lotus 49 | 2011 BMW 530 | |
| Make | Lotus | BMW |
| Model | 49 | 530 |
| Year Released | 1968 | 2011 |
| Engine Size | 2993 cc | 2993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 405 HP | 256 HP |
| Engine RPM | 9000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 516 kg | 1790 kg |
