1959 Lotus Seven vs. 1997 McLaren F1
To start off, 1997 McLaren F1 is newer by 38 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 6,063 cc (12 cylinders), 1997 McLaren F1 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 McLaren F1 (618 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 580 more horse power than 1959 Lotus Seven. (38 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 McLaren F1 should accelerate faster than 1959 Lotus Seven. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 McLaren F1 weights approximately 725 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 | 1997 McLaren F1 | |
| Make | Lotus | McLaren |
| Model | Seven | F1 |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1171 cc | 6063 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 618 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 7400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 3 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 445 kg | 1170 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3280 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1350 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1150 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2720 mm |
