1959 Lotus Seven vs. 1966 Riley 4
To start off, 1966 Riley 4 is newer by 7 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 1,622 cc (4 cylinders), 1966 Riley 4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1966 Riley 4 (67 HP) has 29 more horse power than 1959 Lotus Seven. (38 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1966 Riley 4 should accelerate faster than 1959 Lotus Seven. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1966 Riley 4 weights approximately 703 kg more than 1959 Lotus Seven. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 | 1966 Riley 4 | |
| Make | Lotus | Riley |
| Model | Seven | 4 |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1966 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1171 cc | 1622 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 67 HP |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 445 kg | 1148 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3280 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1350 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1530 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2530 mm |
