1996 BMW Z3 vs. 1959 Lotus Seven
To start off, 1996 BMW Z3 is newer by 37 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 2,926 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW Z3 (201 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 127 more horse power than 1959 Lotus Seven. (74 HP @ 6250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 1959 Lotus Seven. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW Z3 weights approximately 835 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. 1996 BMW Z3 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. 1996 BMW Z3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW Z3 | 1959 Lotus Seven | |
| Make | BMW | Lotus |
| Model | Z3 | Seven |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1959 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2926 cc | 1098 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1255 kg | 420 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 3280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1350 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2240 mm |
