1959 Lotus Seven vs. 1984 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 1984 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 25 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 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 1984 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1984 Volkswagen Jetta (109 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1959 Lotus Seven. (74 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1984 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1959 Lotus Seven. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1984 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 530 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, 1984 Volkswagen Jetta, 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 | 1984 Volkswagen Jetta | |
Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
Model | Seven | Jetta |
Year Released | 1959 | 1984 |
Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1098 cc | 1781 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 74 HP | 109 HP |
Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 420 kg | 950 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3280 mm | 4320 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1350 mm | 1690 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2480 mm |