1961 Chrysler Imperial vs. 1957 Lotus Seven
To start off, 1961 Chrysler Imperial is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1957 Lotus Seven. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1957 Lotus Seven would be higher. At 5,802 cc (8 cylinders), 1961 Chrysler Imperial is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1961 Chrysler Imperial (276 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 150 more horse power than 1957 Lotus Seven. (126 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1961 Chrysler Imperial should accelerate faster than 1957 Lotus Seven. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 Chrysler Imperial weights approximately 1610 kg more than 1957 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. Let's talk about torque, 1961 Chrysler Imperial (510 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 357 more torque (in Nm) than 1957 Lotus Seven. (153 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1961 Chrysler Imperial will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1957 Lotus Seven.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Chrysler Imperial | 1957 Lotus Seven | |
| Make | Chrysler | Lotus |
| Model | Imperial | Seven |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1957 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5802 cc | 1558 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 276 HP | 126 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 510 Nm | 153 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 2360 kg | 750 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 6170 mm | 3370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1560 mm | 950 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3800 mm | 2190 mm |
