1970 Lotus Seven vs. 1974 Renault 17
To start off, 1974 Renault 17 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Lotus Seven. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Lotus Seven would be higher. At 1,606 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 Renault 17 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Renault 17 (108 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1970 Lotus Seven. (85 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Renault 17 should accelerate faster than 1970 Lotus Seven. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Renault 17 weights approximately 465 kg more than 1970 Lotus Seven. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1970 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 1970 Lotus Seven. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1974 Renault 17, 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, 1974 Renault 17 (136 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Lotus Seven. (125 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1974 Renault 17 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Lotus Seven.
Compare all specifications:
1970 Lotus Seven | 1974 Renault 17 | |
Make | Lotus | Renault |
Model | Seven | 17 |
Year Released | 1970 | 1974 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1340 cc | 1606 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 85 HP | 108 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 125 Nm | 136 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.3:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 590 kg | 1055 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3710 mm | 4270 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1640 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1320 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2440 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 34 L | 55 L |