1959 Berkeley QB vs. 1968 Lotus Seven
To start off, 1968 Lotus Seven is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Berkeley QB. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Berkeley QB would be higher. At 1,597 cc (4 cylinders), 1968 Lotus Seven is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1968 Lotus Seven (83 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1959 Berkeley QB. (39 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1968 Lotus Seven should accelerate faster than 1959 Berkeley QB. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1968 Lotus Seven weights approximately 169 kg more than 1959 Berkeley QB. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1968 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 1968 Lotus Seven. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1959 Berkeley QB, 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 QB | 1968 Lotus Seven | |
| Make | Berkeley | Lotus |
| Model | QB | Seven |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1968 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 691 cc | 1597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 39 HP | 83 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6500 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 | 381 kg | 550 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3400 mm | 3380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1380 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1170 mm | 950 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1990 mm | 2240 mm |
