1961 Chevrolet Corvair vs. 1959 Lotus Seven
To start off, 1961 Chevrolet Corvair is newer by 2 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 2,368 cc (6 cylinders), 1961 Chevrolet Corvair is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1961 Chevrolet Corvair (81 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1959 Lotus Seven. (74 HP @ 6250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1961 Chevrolet Corvair should accelerate faster than 1959 Lotus Seven. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 Chevrolet Corvair weights approximately 750 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:
| 1961 Chevrolet Corvair | 1959 Lotus Seven | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Lotus |
| Model | Corvair | Seven |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1959 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 2368 cc | 1098 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1170 kg | 420 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 3280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1350 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2240 mm |
