1961 Lotus Seven vs. 1957 Peugeot 203
To start off, 1961 Lotus Seven is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1957 Peugeot 203. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1957 Peugeot 203 would be higher. At 1,288 cc (4 cylinders), 1957 Peugeot 203 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1957 Peugeot 203 (44 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 1961 Lotus Seven. (38 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1957 Peugeot 203 should accelerate faster than 1961 Lotus Seven. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1957 Peugeot 203 weights approximately 548 kg more than 1961 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 Lotus Seven | 1957 Peugeot 203 | |
| Make | Lotus | Peugeot |
| Model | Seven | 203 |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1957 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 997 cc | 1288 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 44 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 432 kg | 980 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3360 mm | 4360 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1100 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 29 L | 50 L |
