1959 Lotus Seven vs. 2004 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 45 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 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen Golf (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 110 more horse power than 1959 Lotus Seven. (38 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1959 Lotus Seven. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 795 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, 2004 Volkswagen Golf, 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 | 2004 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
| Model | Seven | Golf |
| Year Released | 1959 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1171 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 445 kg | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3280 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1350 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2470 mm |
