1968 Lotus Seven vs. 1981 Reliant SE6
To start off, 1981 Reliant SE6 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Lotus Seven. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Lotus Seven would be higher. At 2,994 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Reliant SE6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Reliant SE6 (133 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1968 Lotus Seven. (83 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Reliant SE6 should accelerate faster than 1968 Lotus Seven. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Reliant SE6 weights approximately 700 kg more than 1968 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:
| 1968 Lotus Seven | 1981 Reliant SE6 | |
| Make | Lotus | Reliant |
| Model | Seven | SE6 |
| Year Released | 1968 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 2994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 133 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 550 kg | 1250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3380 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 950 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2650 mm |
