1960 Lotus Elite vs. 1959 Lotus Seven
To start off, 1960 Lotus Elite is newer by 1 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 1,216 cc (4 cylinders), 1960 Lotus Elite is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1960 Lotus Elite (71 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1959 Lotus Seven. (36 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1960 Lotus Elite should accelerate faster than 1959 Lotus Seven. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1960 Lotus Elite weights approximately 142 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:
| 1960 Lotus Elite | 1959 Lotus Seven | |
| Make | Lotus | Lotus |
| Model | Elite | Seven |
| Year Released | 1960 | 1959 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1216 cc | 947 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 71 HP | 36 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 582 kg | 440 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3770 mm | 3280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1350 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2240 mm |
