1961 Lotus Seven vs. 1949 Porsche 356
To start off, 1961 Lotus Seven is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1949 Porsche 356. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1949 Porsche 356 would be higher. At 1,340 cc (4 cylinders), 1961 Lotus Seven is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1961 Lotus Seven (85 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1949 Porsche 356. (38 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1961 Lotus Seven should accelerate faster than 1949 Porsche 356. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1949 Porsche 356 weights approximately 336 kg more than 1961 Lotus Seven.
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 Seven | 1949 Porsche 356 | |
| Make | Lotus | Porsche |
| Model | Seven | 356 |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1949 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1340 cc | 1131 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 38 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4200 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 | 444 kg | 780 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3360 mm | 3870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1100 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2110 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 29 L | 79 L |
