1967 Lotus Seven vs. 1969 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1969 Lotus Elan is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1967 Lotus Seven. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1967 Lotus Seven would be higher. At 1,558 cc (4 cylinders), 1969 Lotus Elan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1969 Lotus Elan (118 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 1967 Lotus Seven. (38 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1969 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1967 Lotus Seven. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1969 Lotus Elan weights approximately 459 kg more than 1967 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:
| 1967 Lotus Seven | 1969 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Lotus | Lotus |
| Model | Seven | Elan |
| Year Released | 1967 | 1969 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 997 cc | 1558 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 430 kg | 889 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3360 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1100 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 29 L | 59 L |
