1971 Lotus Elan vs. 1969 Lotus Seven
To start off, 1971 Lotus Elan is newer by 2 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. Both 1971 Lotus Elan and 1969 Lotus Seven are equipped with a 1,558 cc engine. In terms of performance, 1969 Lotus Seven (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 1971 Lotus Elan. (108 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1969 Lotus Seven should accelerate faster than 1971 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Lotus Elan weights approximately 124 kg more than 1969 Lotus Seven.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Lotus Elan | 1969 Lotus Seven | |
| Make | Lotus | Lotus |
| Model | Elan | Seven |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1969 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1558 cc | 1558 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 700 kg | 576 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3690 mm | 3380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1170 mm | 950 mm |
