1981 Honda Civic vs. 1959 Lotus Seven
To start off, 1981 Honda Civic is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Lotus Seven. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Lotus Seven would be higher. At 1,333 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Honda Civic is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1959 Lotus Seven (74 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1981 Honda Civic. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1959 Lotus Seven should accelerate faster than 1981 Honda Civic. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Honda Civic weights approximately 365 kg more than 1959 Lotus Seven.
Because 1959 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 1959 Lotus Seven. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Honda Civic, 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Honda Civic | 1959 Lotus Seven | |
| Make | Honda | Lotus |
| Model | Civic | Seven |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1959 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1333 cc | 1098 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 785 kg | 420 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3770 mm | 3280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1350 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2330 mm | 2240 mm |
