1961 Lotus Seven vs. 1989 Nissan Santana
To start off, 1989 Nissan Santana is newer by 28 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 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Nissan Santana is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Nissan Santana (93 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1961 Lotus Seven. (38 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Nissan Santana should accelerate faster than 1961 Lotus Seven. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Nissan Santana weights approximately 642 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.
Because 1961 Lotus Seven is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1961 Lotus Seven. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Nissan Santana, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 | 1989 Nissan Santana | |
| Make | Lotus | Nissan |
| Model | Seven | Santana |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1989 |
| Engine Size | 997 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 93 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 432 kg | 1074 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3360 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1100 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2560 mm |
