1963 Lotus Seven vs. 1999 Mercury Cougar
To start off, 1999 Mercury Cougar is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1963 Lotus Seven. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1963 Lotus Seven would be higher. At 2,530 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 Mercury Cougar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Mercury Cougar (168 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 130 more horse power than 1963 Lotus Seven. (38 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Mercury Cougar should accelerate faster than 1963 Lotus Seven. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mercury Cougar weights approximately 914 kg more than 1963 Lotus Seven. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1963 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 1963 Lotus Seven. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Mercury Cougar, 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1963 Lotus Seven | 1999 Mercury Cougar | |
| Make | Lotus | Mercury |
| Model | Seven | Cougar |
| Year Released | 1963 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 997 cc | 2530 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 430 kg | 1344 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3360 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1100 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 29 L | 58 L |
