1959 Lotus Seven vs. 2003 Saturn L
To start off, 2003 Saturn L is newer by 44 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 2,196 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Saturn L is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Saturn L (135 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 1959 Lotus Seven. (74 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Saturn L should accelerate faster than 1959 Lotus Seven. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Saturn L weights approximately 900 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, 2003 Saturn L, 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 | 2003 Saturn L | |
| Make | Lotus | Saturn |
| Model | Seven | L |
| Year Released | 1959 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1098 cc | 2196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 420 kg | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3280 mm | 4840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1350 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2710 mm |
