1964 Lotus Seven vs. 2009 Lotus Elise
To start off, 2009 Lotus Elise is newer by 45 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1964 Lotus Seven. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1964 Lotus Seven would be higher. At 1,794 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Lotus Elise is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Lotus Elise (219 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 181 more horse power than 1964 Lotus Seven. (38 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1964 Lotus Seven. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Lotus Elise weights approximately 449 kg more than 1964 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 Seven | 2009 Lotus Elise | |
| Make | Lotus | Lotus |
| Model | Seven | Elise |
| Year Released | 1964 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 997 cc | 1794 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 219 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 8000 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 | 432 kg | 881 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3360 mm | 3790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1100 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2310 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 29 L | 44 L |
