1969 Lotus Seven vs. 1996 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1996 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Lotus Seven. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Lotus Seven would be higher. At 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Volkswagen Golf (115 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 1969 Lotus Seven. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1969 Lotus Seven.
Because 1969 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 1969 Lotus Seven. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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. Let's talk about torque, 1996 Volkswagen Golf (165 Nm) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Lotus Seven. (123 Nm). This means 1996 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Lotus Seven.
Compare all specifications:
| 1969 Lotus Seven | 1996 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
| Model | Seven | Golf |
| Year Released | 1969 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1558 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 123 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.6 mm | 92.7 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 3380 mm | 4080 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 950 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2480 mm |
