1988 BMW 520 vs. 1959 Lotus Seven
To start off, 1988 BMW 520 is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Lotus Seven. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Lotus Seven would be higher. At 1,989 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 BMW 520 (129 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1959 Lotus Seven. (74 HP @ 6250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 1959 Lotus Seven. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 BMW 520 weights approximately 1150 kg more than 1959 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. 1988 BMW 520 has automatic transmission and 1959 Lotus Seven has manual transmission. 1959 Lotus Seven will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1988 BMW 520 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW 520 | 1959 Lotus Seven | |
| Make | BMW | Lotus |
| Model | 520 | Seven |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1959 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1989 cc | 1098 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1570 kg | 420 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 3280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1350 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2240 mm |
