1959 Lotus Seven vs. 1989 Suzuki Samurai
To start off, 1989 Suzuki Samurai is newer by 30 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 1,298 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Suzuki Samurai is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Suzuki Samurai (68 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1959 Lotus Seven. (36 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Suzuki Samurai should accelerate faster than 1959 Lotus Seven. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Suzuki Samurai weights approximately 490 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 1989 Suzuki Samurai is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1959 Lotus Seven. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Suzuki Samurai will offer significantly more control. 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 | 1989 Suzuki Samurai | |
| Make | Lotus | Suzuki |
| Model | Seven | Samurai |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Roadster | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 947 cc | 1298 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 36 HP | 68 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 440 kg | 930 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3280 mm | 3450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1350 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2490 mm |
