1961 Lotus Seven vs. 1965 Volkswagen 1500
To start off, 1965 Volkswagen 1500 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Lotus Seven. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Lotus Seven would be higher. At 1,493 cc (4 cylinders), 1965 Volkswagen 1500 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1961 Lotus Seven (85 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1965 Volkswagen 1500. (52 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1961 Lotus Seven should accelerate faster than 1965 Volkswagen 1500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1965 Volkswagen 1500 weights approximately 486 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 | 1965 Volkswagen 1500 | |
| Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
| Model | Seven | 1500 |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1965 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1340 cc | 1493 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 52 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 444 kg | 930 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3360 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1100 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 29 L | 40 L |
