1961 Lotus Seven vs. 1994 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 1994 Lotus Esprit is newer by 33 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 2,172 cc (4 cylinders), 1994 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1994 Lotus Esprit (264 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 179 more horse power than 1961 Lotus Seven. (85 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1994 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster 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 | 1994 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Lotus | Lotus |
| Model | Seven | Esprit |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1994 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1340 cc | 2172 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 264 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3360 mm | 4340 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1100 mm | 1160 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 29 L | 72 L |
