1971 Lotus Seven vs. 2011 Opel Meriva
To start off, 2011 Opel Meriva is newer by 40 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 1,398 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Opel Meriva is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Opel Meriva (118 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1971 Lotus Seven. (85 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Opel Meriva should accelerate faster than 1971 Lotus Seven.
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, 2011 Opel Meriva, 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, 2011 Opel Meriva (175 Nm) has 83 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Lotus Seven. (92 Nm). This means 2011 Opel Meriva will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Lotus Seven.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Lotus Seven | 2011 Opel Meriva | |
| Make | Lotus | Opel |
| Model | Seven | Meriva |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1340 cc | 1398 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 92 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
