1968 Lotus Seven vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1997 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 29 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. Both 1968 Lotus Seven and 1997 Volkswagen Golf are equipped with a 1,597 cc engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (115 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1968 Lotus Seven. (83 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1968 Lotus Seven. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 610 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, 1997 Volkswagen Golf, 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 | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
| Model | Seven | Golf |
| Year Released | 1968 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 1597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 550 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3380 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 950 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2470 mm |
