1954 DKW F 89 vs. 1959 Lotus Seven
To start off, 1959 Lotus Seven is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1954 DKW F 89. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1954 DKW F 89 would be higher. At 1,098 cc (4 cylinders), 1959 Lotus Seven is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1959 Lotus Seven (74 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1954 DKW F 89. (24 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1959 Lotus Seven should accelerate faster than 1954 DKW F 89. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1954 DKW F 89 weights approximately 440 kg more than 1959 Lotus Seven.
Because 1959 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 1959 Lotus Seven. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1954 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:
| 1954 DKW F 89 | 1959 Lotus Seven | |
| Make | DKW | Lotus |
| Model | F 89 | Seven |
| Year Released | 1954 | 1959 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 684 cc | 1098 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 24 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 860 kg | 420 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 3280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1350 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 2240 mm |
