2001 BMW 320 vs. 1959 Lotus Seven
To start off, 2001 BMW 320 is newer by 42 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW 320 (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 110 more horse power than 1959 Lotus Seven. (38 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 1959 Lotus Seven. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW 320 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. 2001 BMW 320 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. 2001 BMW 320 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 BMW 320 | 1959 Lotus Seven | |
| Make | BMW | Lotus |
| Model | 320 | Seven |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1959 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1171 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 38 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1595 kg | 445 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 3280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1350 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2240 mm |
