1959 Lotus Seven vs. 2009 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 50 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 2,480 cc (5 cylinders), 2009 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen Jetta (170 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 96 more horse power than 1959 Lotus Seven. (74 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1959 Lotus Seven. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 898 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, 2009 Volkswagen Jetta, 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 | 2009 Volkswagen Jetta | |
Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
Model | Seven | Jetta |
Year Released | 1959 | 2009 |
Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1098 cc | 2480 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 74 HP | 170 HP |
Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 5700 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 | 1318 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3280 mm | 4560 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1350 mm | 1790 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2580 mm |