1957 Lotus Seven vs. 2008 Volkswagen Golf

To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 51 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 3,189 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (247 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 121 more horse power than 1957 Lotus Seven. (126 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1957 Lotus Seven. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 844 kg more than 1957 Lotus Seven. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2008 Volkswagen Golf is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1957 Lotus Seven. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Golf will offer significantly more control. 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, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (320 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 167 more torque (in Nm) than 1957 Lotus Seven. (153 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1957 Lotus Seven. 2008 Volkswagen Golf 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. 2008 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1957 Lotus Seven 2008 Volkswagen Golf
Make Lotus Volkswagen
Model Seven Golf
Year Released 1957 2008
Body Type Roadster Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1558 cc 3189 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 126 HP 247 HP
Engine RPM 6500 RPM 6300 RPM
Torque 153 Nm 320 Nm
Torque RPM 5500 RPM 2500 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 10.3:1 10.9:1
Top Speed 161 km/hour 245 km/hour
Drive Type Rear 4WD
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 2 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 750 kg 1594 kg
Vehicle Length 3370 mm 4220 mm
Vehicle Width 1560 mm 1770 mm
Vehicle Height 950 mm 1470 mm
Wheelbase Size 2190 mm 2580 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 29 L 60 L