1959 Lotus Seven vs. 2007 Mini Cooper
To start off, 2007 Mini Cooper is newer by 48 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 1,597 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Mini Cooper is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mini Cooper (118 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 1959 Lotus Seven. (36 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mini Cooper should accelerate faster than 1959 Lotus Seven. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mini Cooper weights approximately 685 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, 2007 Mini Cooper, 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 | 2007 Mini Cooper | |
| Make | Lotus | Mini |
| Model | Seven | Cooper |
| Year Released | 1959 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 947 cc | 1597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 36 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 440 kg | 1125 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3280 mm | 3640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1350 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2470 mm |
