1959 Lotus Seven vs. 1964 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1964 Lotus Elan is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Lotus Seven. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Lotus Seven would be higher. At 1,558 cc (4 cylinders), 1964 Lotus Elan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1964 Lotus Elan (104 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 68 more horse power than 1959 Lotus Seven. (36 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1964 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1959 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:
| 1959 Lotus Seven | 1964 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Lotus | Lotus |
| Model | Seven | Elan |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1964 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 947 cc | 1558 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 36 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3280 mm | 3700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1350 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1150 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2140 mm |
