1981 BMW 520 vs. 1970 Lotus Seven
To start off, 1981 BMW 520 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Lotus Seven. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Lotus Seven would be higher. At 1,991 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 BMW 520 (123 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 1970 Lotus Seven. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 1970 Lotus Seven. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 BMW 520 weights approximately 650 kg more than 1970 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:
| 1981 BMW 520 | 1970 Lotus Seven | |
| Make | BMW | Lotus |
| Model | 520 | Seven |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1970 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1557 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5500 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 | 1220 kg | 570 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 3380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 950 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2240 mm |
