1957 Lotus Seven vs. 1968 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1968 Lotus Elan is newer by 11 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. Both 1957 Lotus Seven and 1968 Lotus Elan are equipped with a 1,558 cc engine. In terms of performance, 1957 Lotus Seven (126 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1968 Lotus Elan. (104 HP @ 6250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1957 Lotus Seven should accelerate faster than 1968 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1968 Lotus Elan weights approximately 70 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:
| 1957 Lotus Seven | 1968 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Lotus | Lotus |
| Model | Seven | Elan |
| Year Released | 1957 | 1968 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1558 cc | 1558 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 126 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 750 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3370 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 950 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2190 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 29 L | 59 L |
