1959 Lotus Seven vs. 1987 Volvo 740
To start off, 1987 Volvo 740 is newer by 28 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 1,986 cc (4 cylinders), 1987 Volvo 740 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Volvo 740 (156 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 120 more horse power than 1959 Lotus Seven. (36 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1987 Volvo 740 should accelerate faster than 1959 Lotus Seven. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Volvo 740 weights approximately 892 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 | 1987 Volvo 740 | |
| Make | Lotus | Volvo |
| Model | Seven | 740 |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1987 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 947 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 36 HP | 156 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 440 kg | 1332 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3280 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1350 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2780 mm |
