1962 Lotus Seven vs. 1977 Chrysler 1609
To start off, 1977 Chrysler 1609 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 Lotus Seven. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 Lotus Seven would be higher. At 1,639 cc (4 cylinders), 1977 Chrysler 1609 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1977 Chrysler 1609 (90 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1962 Lotus Seven. (38 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1977 Chrysler 1609 should accelerate faster than 1962 Lotus Seven. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 Chrysler 1609 weights approximately 660 kg more than 1962 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. 1977 Chrysler 1609 has automatic transmission and 1962 Lotus Seven has manual transmission. 1962 Lotus Seven will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1977 Chrysler 1609 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1962 Lotus Seven | 1977 Chrysler 1609 | |
| Make | Lotus | Chrysler |
| Model | Seven | 1609 |
| Year Released | 1962 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 997 cc | 1639 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 430 kg | 1090 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3360 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1100 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2670 mm |
