1971 BMW 3 vs. 1963 Lotus Seven
To start off, 1971 BMW 3 is newer by 8 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 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 BMW 3 (170 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 132 more horse power than 1963 Lotus Seven. (38 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 1963 Lotus Seven. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 BMW 3 weights approximately 950 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:
| 1971 BMW 3 | 1963 Lotus Seven | |
| Make | BMW | Lotus |
| Model | 3 | Seven |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1963 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 38 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 430 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 3360 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1490 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1100 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2240 mm |
