1962 Lotus Seven vs. 1986 Lotus Excel
To start off, 1986 Lotus Excel is newer by 24 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 2,174 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Lotus Excel is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Lotus Excel (180 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 1962 Lotus Seven. (94 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Lotus Excel should accelerate faster than 1962 Lotus Seven. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Lotus Excel weights approximately 707 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. 1986 Lotus Excel 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. 1986 Lotus Excel will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1962 Lotus Seven | 1986 Lotus Excel | |
Make | Lotus | Lotus |
Model | Seven | Excel |
Year Released | 1962 | 1986 |
Body Type | Roadster | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1498 cc | 2174 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 94 HP | 180 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 470 kg | 1177 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3360 mm | 4380 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1100 mm | 1020 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2490 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 29 L | 31 L |