1971 Lotus Seven vs. 2003 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Lotus Seven. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Lotus Seven would be higher. At 1,390 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Volkswagen Polo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volkswagen Polo (101 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1971 Lotus Seven. (85 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen Polo should accelerate faster than 1971 Lotus Seven. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volkswagen Polo weights approximately 512 kg more than 1971 Lotus Seven. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 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 1971 Lotus Seven. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Volkswagen Polo (126 Nm) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Lotus Seven. (92 Nm). This means 2003 Volkswagen Polo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Lotus Seven.
Compare all specifications:
1971 Lotus Seven | 2003 Volkswagen Polo | |
Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
Model | Seven | Polo |
Year Released | 1971 | 2003 |
Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1340 cc | 1390 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 85 HP | 101 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 92 Nm | 126 Nm |
Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 76.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 63 mm | 75.6 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
Top Speed | 160 km/hour | 183 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 594 kg | 1106 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3720 mm | 3910 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1680 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1090 mm | 1530 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2590 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 34 L | 45 L |