1961 Lotus Elite vs. 1970 Lotus Seven
To start off, 1970 Lotus Seven is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Lotus Elite. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Lotus Elite would be higher. At 1,340 cc (4 cylinders), 1970 Lotus Seven is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1970 Lotus Seven (85 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1961 Lotus Elite. (83 HP @ 6400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1970 Lotus Seven should accelerate faster than 1961 Lotus Elite. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1970 Lotus Seven weights approximately 10 kg more than 1961 Lotus Elite. 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 Lotus Elite | 1970 Lotus Seven | |
| Make | Lotus | Lotus |
| Model | Elite | Seven |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1970 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1216 cc | 1340 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 580 kg | 590 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3670 mm | 3710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1480 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1180 mm | 1110 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2240 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 29 L | 34 L |
