1981 Lotus Esprit vs. 1962 Lotus Seven
To start off, 1981 Lotus Esprit is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 Lotus Seven. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 Lotus Seven would be higher. At 2,172 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Lotus Esprit (208 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 114 more horse power than 1962 Lotus Seven. (94 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1962 Lotus Seven. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Lotus Esprit weights approximately 730 kg more than 1962 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Lotus Esprit | 1962 Lotus Seven | |
| Make | Lotus | Lotus |
| Model | Esprit | Seven |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1962 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2172 cc | 1498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 208 HP | 94 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 6000 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 | 1200 kg | 470 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 3360 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1490 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1100 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2240 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 71 L | 29 L |
