1985 BMW M5 vs. 1961 Lotus Seven
To start off, 1985 BMW M5 is newer by 24 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), 1985 BMW M5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 BMW M5 (256 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 218 more horse power than 1961 Lotus Seven. (38 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1985 BMW M5 should accelerate faster than 1961 Lotus Seven. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 BMW M5 weights approximately 1068 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:
| 1985 BMW M5 | 1961 Lotus Seven | |
| Make | BMW | Lotus |
| Model | M5 | Seven |
| Year Released | 1985 | 1961 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3453 cc | 997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 256 HP | 38 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 432 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 3360 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1490 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1100 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2240 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 29 L |
