1961 Lotus Seven vs. 1974 Austin Marina
To start off, 1974 Austin Marina is newer by 13 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 1,798 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 Austin Marina is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1961 Lotus Seven (85 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1974 Austin Marina. (59 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1961 Lotus Seven should accelerate faster than 1974 Austin Marina. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Austin Marina weights approximately 436 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. 1974 Austin Marina 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. 1974 Austin Marina will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Lotus Seven | 1974 Austin Marina | |
| Make | Lotus | Austin |
| Model | Seven | Marina |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1340 cc | 1798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5250 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 | 444 kg | 880 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3360 mm | 4230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1100 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2440 mm |
