1959 Lotus Seven vs. 2001 Lotus Exige
To start off, 2001 Lotus Exige is newer by 42 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 1,794 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Lotus Exige is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Lotus Exige (177 HP @ 7800 RPM) has 139 more horse power than 1959 Lotus Seven. (38 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Lotus Exige should accelerate faster than 1959 Lotus Seven. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Lotus Exige weights approximately 335 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 | 2001 Lotus Exige | |
| Make | Lotus | Lotus |
| Model | Seven | Exige |
| Year Released | 1959 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1171 cc | 1794 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 177 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 7800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 445 kg | 780 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3280 mm | 3800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1350 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1190 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2310 mm |
