1959 Lotus Seven vs. 2012 Chevrolet Corvette
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Corvette is newer by 53 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 6,200 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Chevrolet Corvette is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Chevrolet Corvette (430 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 356 more horse power than 1959 Lotus Seven. (74 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Corvette should accelerate faster than 1959 Lotus Seven. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Chevrolet Corvette weights approximately 1072 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 | 2012 Chevrolet Corvette | |
| Make | Lotus | Chevrolet |
| Model | Seven | Corvette |
| Year Released | 1959 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1098 cc | 6200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 430 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 420 kg | 1492 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3280 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1350 mm | 1928 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1237 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2685 mm |
