1951 Austin A 40 vs. 1957 Lotus Seven
To start off, 1957 Lotus Seven is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1951 Austin A 40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1951 Austin A 40 would be higher. At 1,200 cc (4 cylinders), 1951 Austin A 40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 38 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1951 Austin A 40 weights approximately 525 kg more than 1957 Lotus Seven.
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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1951 Austin A 40 | 1957 Lotus Seven | |
| Make | Austin | Lotus |
| Model | A 40 | Seven |
| Year Released | 1951 | 1957 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1200 cc | 1172 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 38 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4300 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 970 kg | 445 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3890 mm | 3280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1350 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1620 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 2240 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 29 L |
