1980 BMW M1 vs. 1961 Lotus Seven
To start off, 1980 BMW M1 is newer by 19 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 3,453 cc (6 cylinders), 1980 BMW M1 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 BMW M1 (273 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 235 more horse power than 1961 Lotus Seven. (38 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1980 BMW M1 should accelerate faster than 1961 Lotus Seven. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 BMW M1 weights approximately 984 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:
| 1980 BMW M1 | 1961 Lotus Seven | |
| Make | BMW | Lotus |
| Model | M1 | Seven |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1961 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 3453 cc | 997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 273 HP | 38 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1416 kg | 432 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 3360 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1490 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1100 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2240 mm |
