1996 BMW 523 vs. 1961 Lotus Seven
To start off, 1996 BMW 523 is newer by 35 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 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW 523 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 523 (170 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 132 more horse power than 1961 Lotus Seven. (38 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 523 should accelerate faster than 1961 Lotus Seven. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 523 weights approximately 1113 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:
| 1996 BMW 523 | 1961 Lotus Seven | |
| Make | BMW | Lotus |
| Model | 523 | Seven |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1961 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 38 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 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 | 1545 kg | 432 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 3360 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1490 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1100 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2240 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 29 L |
