1959 Berkeley Foursome vs. 1960 Lotus Seven
To start off, 1960 Lotus Seven is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Berkeley Foursome. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Berkeley Foursome would be higher. At 946 cc (4 cylinders), 1960 Lotus Seven is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1960 Lotus Seven (36 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 1959 Berkeley Foursome. (30 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1960 Lotus Seven should accelerate faster than 1959 Berkeley Foursome. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1960 Lotus Seven weights approximately 79 kg more than 1959 Berkeley Foursome. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1960 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 1960 Lotus Seven. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1959 Berkeley Foursome, 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:
| 1959 Berkeley Foursome | 1960 Lotus Seven | |
| Make | Berkeley | Lotus |
| Model | Foursome | Seven |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1960 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 592 cc | 946 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 30 HP | 36 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 356 kg | 435 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3340 mm | 3360 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1380 mm | 1490 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1180 mm | 1100 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1990 mm | 2240 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 24 L | 29 L |
