1961 Lotus Seven vs. 1999 Toyota MR2
To start off, 1999 Toyota MR2 is newer by 38 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 1,794 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Toyota MR2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Toyota MR2 (140 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1961 Lotus Seven. (85 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Toyota MR2 should accelerate faster than 1961 Lotus Seven. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Toyota MR2 weights approximately 496 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 | 1999 Toyota MR2 | |
| Make | Lotus | Toyota |
| Model | Seven | MR2 |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1340 cc | 1794 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6400 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 | 444 kg | 940 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3360 mm | 3890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1100 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 29 L | 48 L |
