1968 Lotus Seven vs. 1996 Renault Safrane
To start off, 1996 Renault Safrane is newer by 28 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 2,187 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Renault Safrane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Renault Safrane (114 HP @ 4300 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 1968 Lotus Seven. (83 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Renault Safrane should accelerate faster than 1968 Lotus Seven. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Renault Safrane weights approximately 1100 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.
Because 1968 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 1968 Lotus Seven. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Renault Safrane, 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:
| 1968 Lotus Seven | 1996 Renault Safrane | |
| Make | Lotus | Renault |
| Model | Seven | Safrane |
| Year Released | 1968 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 2187 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 550 kg | 1650 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3380 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 950 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2770 mm |
