1981 Jaguar XJS vs. 1968 Lotus Seven
To start off, 1981 Jaguar XJS is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Lotus Seven. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Lotus Seven would be higher. At 5,344 cc (12 cylinders), 1981 Jaguar XJS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Jaguar XJS (299 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 216 more horse power than 1968 Lotus Seven. (83 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Jaguar XJS should accelerate faster than 1968 Lotus Seven. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Jaguar XJS weights approximately 1157 kg more than 1968 Lotus Seven. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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. 1981 Jaguar XJS has automatic transmission and 1968 Lotus Seven has manual transmission. 1968 Lotus Seven will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1981 Jaguar XJS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Jaguar XJS | 1968 Lotus Seven | |
| Make | Jaguar | Lotus |
| Model | XJS | Seven |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1968 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5344 cc | 1597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 299 HP | 83 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1707 kg | 550 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 3380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 950 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2240 mm |
