1961 Lotus Seven vs. 1958 Triumph TR3
To start off, 1961 Lotus Seven is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 Triumph TR3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 Triumph TR3 would be higher. At 1,991 cc (4 cylinders), 1958 Triumph TR3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1958 Triumph TR3 (94 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1961 Lotus Seven. (38 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1958 Triumph TR3 should accelerate faster than 1961 Lotus Seven. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1958 Triumph TR3 weights approximately 493 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 | 1958 Triumph TR3 | |
| Make | Lotus | Triumph |
| Model | Seven | TR3 |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1958 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 997 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 94 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5000 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 | 432 kg | 925 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3360 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1400 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1100 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2240 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 29 L | 29 L |
