1959 Lotus Seven vs. 1991 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1991 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 32 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), 1991 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Volkswagen Golf (90 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1959 Lotus Seven. (74 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1991 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1959 Lotus Seven. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 664 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, 1991 Volkswagen Golf, 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 | 1991 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
| Model | Seven | Golf |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1991 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| 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 | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 420 kg | 1084 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3280 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1350 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2480 mm |
