1959 Lotus Seven vs. 1997 Toyota Carina
To start off, 1997 Toyota Carina 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 1,586 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Toyota Carina is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Toyota Carina (105 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 1959 Lotus Seven. (36 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Toyota Carina should accelerate faster than 1959 Lotus Seven. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Toyota Carina weights approximately 705 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, 1997 Toyota Carina, 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 | 1997 Toyota Carina | |
| Make | Lotus | Toyota |
| Model | Seven | Carina |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 947 cc | 1586 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 36 HP | 105 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 440 kg | 1145 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3280 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1350 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1420 mm |
