1961 Lotus Seven vs. 1998 Lotus Elise
To start off, 1998 Lotus Elise is newer by 37 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 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Lotus Elise is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Lotus Elise (116 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 78 more horse power than 1961 Lotus Seven. (38 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1961 Lotus Seven. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Lotus Elise weights approximately 273 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 | 1998 Lotus Elise | |
Make | Lotus | Lotus |
Model | Seven | Elise |
Year Released | 1961 | 1998 |
Body Type | Roadster | Roadster |
Engine Position | Front | Middle |
Engine Size | 997 cc | 1796 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 38 HP | 116 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 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 | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 432 kg | 705 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3360 mm | 3730 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1710 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1100 mm | 1210 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2310 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 29 L | 40 L |