1964 Lotus Elan vs. 1959 Lotus Seven
To start off, 1964 Lotus Elan is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Lotus Seven. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Lotus Seven would be higher. At 1,498 cc (4 cylinders), 1964 Lotus Elan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1964 Lotus Elan (100 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 1959 Lotus Seven. (36 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1964 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1959 Lotus Seven. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1964 Lotus Elan weights approximately 150 kg more than 1959 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:
| 1964 Lotus Elan | 1959 Lotus Seven | |
| Make | Lotus | Lotus |
| Model | Elan | Seven |
| Year Released | 1964 | 1959 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 947 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 36 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 4800 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 | 590 kg | 440 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3700 mm | 3280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1350 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2140 mm | 2240 mm |
