1957 Lotus Seven vs. 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier
To start off, 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier is newer by 45 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. At 2,190 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1957 Lotus Seven (126 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier. (121 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1957 Lotus Seven should accelerate faster than 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier weights approximately 465 kg more than 1957 Lotus Seven.
Because 1957 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 1957 Lotus Seven. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier, 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. Let's talk about torque, 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier (176 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 1957 Lotus Seven. (153 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1957 Lotus Seven. 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier has automatic transmission and 1957 Lotus Seven has manual transmission. 1957 Lotus Seven will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1957 Lotus Seven | 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier | |
| Make | Lotus | Chevrolet |
| Model | Seven | Cavalier |
| Year Released | 1957 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1558 cc | 2190 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 126 HP | 121 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 153 Nm | 176 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 750 kg | 1215 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3370 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 950 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2190 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 29 L | 57 L |
