1959 Lotus Seven vs. 1986 Peugeot 309
To start off, 1986 Peugeot 309 is newer by 27 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 1,294 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Peugeot 309 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1959 Lotus Seven (74 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1986 Peugeot 309. (64 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1959 Lotus Seven should accelerate faster than 1986 Peugeot 309. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Peugeot 309 weights approximately 450 kg more than 1959 Lotus Seven.
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, 1986 Peugeot 309, 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 | 1986 Peugeot 309 | |
| Make | Lotus | Peugeot |
| Model | Seven | 309 |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1098 cc | 1294 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 64 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 420 kg | 870 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3280 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1350 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2480 mm |
