1959 Lotus Seven vs. 1980 Saab 900
To start off, 1980 Saab 900 is newer by 21 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 1,985 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Saab 900 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Saab 900 (118 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 1959 Lotus Seven. (38 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1980 Saab 900 should accelerate faster than 1959 Lotus Seven. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Saab 900 weights approximately 757 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.
Because 1959 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 1959 Lotus Seven. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 Saab 900, 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 Lotus Seven | 1980 Saab 900 | |
| Make | Lotus | Saab |
| Model | Seven | 900 |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1171 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 445 kg | 1202 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3280 mm | 4950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1350 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2720 mm |
