1961 Lotus Seven vs. 1958 Rover P5
To start off, 1961 Lotus Seven is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 Rover P5. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 Rover P5 would be higher. At 2,995 cc (6 cylinders), 1958 Rover P5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1958 Rover P5 (106 HP @ 4500 RPM) has 68 more horse power than 1961 Lotus Seven. (38 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1958 Rover P5 should accelerate faster than 1961 Lotus Seven. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1958 Rover P5 weights approximately 1148 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. 1958 Rover P5 has automatic transmission and 1961 Lotus Seven has manual transmission. 1961 Lotus Seven will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1958 Rover P5 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Lotus Seven | 1958 Rover P5 | |
| Make | Lotus | Rover |
| Model | Seven | P5 |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1958 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 997 cc | 2995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 106 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 432 kg | 1580 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3360 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1100 mm | 1540 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2820 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 29 L | 63 L |
