1970 Lotus Seven vs. 2004 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 34 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 1,422 cc (3 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen Polo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1970 Lotus Seven (85 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen Polo. (74 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1970 Lotus Seven should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen Polo weights approximately 580 kg more than 1970 Lotus Seven.
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, 2004 Volkswagen Polo, 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, 2004 Volkswagen Polo (195 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Lotus Seven. (125 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Volkswagen Polo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Lotus Seven.
Compare all specifications:
| 1970 Lotus Seven | 2004 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
| Model | Seven | Polo |
| Year Released | 1970 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1340 cc | 1422 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 125 Nm | 195 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 19.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 590 kg | 1170 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3710 mm | 3900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 34 L | 45 L |
