1957 Berkeley Sports vs. 1961 Lotus Seven
To start off, 1961 Lotus Seven is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1957 Berkeley Sports. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1957 Berkeley Sports would be higher. At 1,340 cc (4 cylinders), 1961 Lotus Seven is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1961 Lotus Seven (85 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 1957 Berkeley Sports. (15 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1961 Lotus Seven should accelerate faster than 1957 Berkeley Sports. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 Lotus Seven weights approximately 162 kg more than 1957 Berkeley Sports. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1961 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 1961 Lotus Seven. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1957 Berkeley Sports, 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:
| 1957 Berkeley Sports | 1961 Lotus Seven | |
| Make | Berkeley | Lotus |
| Model | Sports | Seven |
| Year Released | 1957 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 322 cc | 1340 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 15 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 282 kg | 444 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3130 mm | 3360 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1280 mm | 1490 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1090 mm | 1100 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1780 mm | 2240 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 15 L | 29 L |
