1961 Lotus Seven vs. 2012 Volkswagen Routan
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Routan is newer by 51 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 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Routan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Routan (283 HP @ 6350 RPM) has 245 more horse power than 1961 Lotus Seven. (38 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Routan should accelerate faster than 1961 Lotus Seven. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Routan weights approximately 1606 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, 2012 Volkswagen Routan, 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. 2012 Volkswagen Routan has automatic transmission and 1961 Lotus Seven has manual transmission. 1961 Lotus Seven will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Volkswagen Routan will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Lotus Seven | 2012 Volkswagen Routan | |
| Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
| Model | Seven | Routan |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 997 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 283 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6350 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Flex Fuel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 432 kg | 2038 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3360 mm | 5144 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1953 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1100 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 3078 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 29 L | 78 L |
