1961 Lotus Seven vs. 1972 AC 428
To start off, 1972 AC 428 is newer by 11 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 7,003 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 AC 428 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 AC 428 (298 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 260 more horse power than 1961 Lotus Seven. (38 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1972 AC 428 should accelerate faster than 1961 Lotus Seven. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 AC 428 weights approximately 1002 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. 1972 AC 428 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. 1972 AC 428 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Lotus Seven | 1972 AC 428 | |
| Make | Lotus | AC |
| Model | Seven | 428 |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 997 cc | 7003 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 298 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 432 kg | 1434 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3360 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1100 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2450 mm |
