1985 Honda Prelude vs. 1959 Lotus Seven
To start off, 1985 Honda Prelude is newer by 26 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 1,829 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Honda Prelude is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Honda Prelude (107 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 71 more horse power than 1959 Lotus Seven. (36 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1985 Honda Prelude should accelerate faster than 1959 Lotus Seven. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Honda Prelude weights approximately 535 kg more than 1959 Lotus Seven. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1985 Honda Prelude, 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:
| 1985 Honda Prelude | 1959 Lotus Seven | |
| Make | Honda | Lotus |
| Model | Prelude | Seven |
| Year Released | 1985 | 1959 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1829 cc | 947 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 107 HP | 36 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 975 kg | 440 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 3280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1350 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2240 mm |
