1970 Lotus Seven vs. 1999 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1999 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 29 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 1,594 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Volkswagen Beetle (100 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1970 Lotus Seven. (85 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1970 Lotus Seven. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 615 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, 1999 Volkswagen Beetle, 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, 1999 Volkswagen Beetle (150 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Lotus Seven. (125 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1999 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Lotus Seven.
Compare all specifications:
1970 Lotus Seven | 1999 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
Model | Seven | Beetle |
Year Released | 1970 | 1999 |
Body Type | Roadster | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1340 cc | 1594 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 85 HP | 100 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 125 Nm | 150 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.3:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 590 kg | 1205 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3710 mm | 4090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1500 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2520 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 34 L | 55 L |