2009 BMW 320 vs. 1957 Lotus Seven

To start off, 2009 BMW 320 is newer by 52 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1957 Lotus Seven. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1957 Lotus Seven would be higher. At 2,171 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 320 (168 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1957 Lotus Seven. (126 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 1957 Lotus Seven. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 320 weights approximately 865 kg more than 1957 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. Let's talk about torque, 2009 BMW 320 (211 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 1957 Lotus Seven. (153 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1957 Lotus Seven.

Compare all specifications:

2009 BMW 320 1957 Lotus Seven
Make BMW Lotus
Model 320 Seven
Year Released 2009 1957
Body Type Convertible Roadster
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2171 cc 1558 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 168 HP 126 HP
Engine RPM 6100 RPM 6500 RPM
Torque 211 Nm 153 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 5500 RPM
Top Speed 222 km/hour 161 km/hour
Drive Type Rear Rear
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 4 seats 2 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1615 kg 750 kg
Vehicle Length 4490 mm 3370 mm
Vehicle Width 1760 mm 1560 mm
Vehicle Height 1380 mm 950 mm
Wheelbase Size 2730 mm 2190 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 63 L 29 L