1990 BMW 316 vs. 1960 Lotus Seven
To start off, 1990 BMW 316 is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1960 Lotus Seven. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1960 Lotus Seven would be higher. At 1,596 cc (4 cylinders), 1990 BMW 316 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 BMW 316 (100 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 1960 Lotus Seven. (36 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1990 BMW 316 should accelerate faster than 1960 Lotus Seven. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 BMW 316 weights approximately 645 kg more than 1960 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:
| 1990 BMW 316 | 1960 Lotus Seven | |
| Make | BMW | Lotus |
| Model | 316 | Seven |
| Year Released | 1990 | 1960 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 946 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 36 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4800 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 | 1080 kg | 435 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 3360 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1490 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1100 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2240 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 29 L |
