1959 Lotus Seven vs. 1996 Rover 400
To start off, 1996 Rover 400 is newer by 37 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 1,589 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Rover 400 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Rover 400 (109 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1959 Lotus Seven. (74 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Rover 400 should accelerate faster 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, 1996 Rover 400, 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 | 1996 Rover 400 | |
| Make | Lotus | Rover |
| Model | Seven | 400 |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1098 cc | 1589 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 3280 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1350 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2560 mm |
