1959 Lotus Seven vs. 1998 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 1998 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 39 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 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Volkswagen Polo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Volkswagen Polo (74 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1959 Lotus Seven. (36 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Volkswagen Polo should accelerate faster than 1959 Lotus Seven. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Volkswagen Polo weights approximately 550 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, 1998 Volkswagen Polo, 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 | 1998 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
| Model | Seven | Polo |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 947 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 36 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 440 kg | 990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3280 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1350 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2410 mm |
