1961 Lotus Seven vs. 1979 Renault 5
To start off, 1979 Renault 5 is newer by 18 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 1,397 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Renault 5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Renault 5 (159 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 121 more horse power than 1961 Lotus Seven. (38 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Renault 5 should accelerate faster than 1961 Lotus Seven. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Renault 5 weights approximately 538 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 | 1979 Renault 5 | |
| Make | Lotus | Renault |
| Model | Seven | 5 |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 997 cc | 1397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 159 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 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 | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 432 kg | 970 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3360 mm | 3670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1100 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 29 L | 56 L |
