1970 Lotus Seven vs. 2012 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 42 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 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Golf (170 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1970 Lotus Seven. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1970 Lotus Seven. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 776 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, 2012 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. 2012 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 1970 Lotus Seven has manual transmission. 1970 Lotus Seven will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1970 Lotus Seven | 2012 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
| Model | Seven | Golf |
| Year Released | 1970 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1557 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 570 kg | 1346 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3380 mm | 4199 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 950 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2578 mm |
