2001 BMW M3 vs. 1970 Lotus Seven
To start off, 2001 BMW M3 is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Lotus Seven. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Lotus Seven would be higher. At 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW M3 (342 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 228 more horse power than 1970 Lotus Seven. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1970 Lotus Seven. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW M3 weights approximately 1025 kg more than 1970 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 M3 has automatic transmission and 1970 Lotus Seven has manual transmission. 1970 Lotus Seven will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 BMW M3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 BMW M3 | 1970 Lotus Seven | |
| Make | BMW | Lotus |
| Model | M3 | Seven |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1970 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 1557 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 342 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1595 kg | 570 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 3380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 950 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2240 mm |
