1950 DKW F 89 vs. 1970 Lotus Seven
To start off, 1970 Lotus Seven is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1950 DKW F 89. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1950 DKW F 89 would be higher. At 1,557 cc (4 cylinders), 1970 Lotus Seven is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1970 Lotus Seven (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 90 more horse power than 1950 DKW F 89. (24 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1970 Lotus Seven should accelerate faster than 1950 DKW F 89. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1950 DKW F 89 weights approximately 290 kg more than 1970 Lotus Seven.
Because 1970 Lotus Seven is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1970 Lotus Seven. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1950 DKW F 89, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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:
| 1950 DKW F 89 | 1970 Lotus Seven | |
| Make | DKW | Lotus |
| Model | F 89 | Seven |
| Year Released | 1950 | 1970 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 684 cc | 1557 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 24 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 860 kg | 570 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 3380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 950 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 2240 mm |
