1986 Lotus Esprit vs. 1957 Lotus Seven
To start off, 1986 Lotus Esprit is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1957 Lotus Seven. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1957 Lotus Seven would be higher. At 2,172 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Lotus Esprit (160 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 122 more horse power than 1957 Lotus Seven. (38 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1986 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1957 Lotus Seven. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Lotus Esprit weights approximately 622 kg more than 1957 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:
| 1986 Lotus Esprit | 1957 Lotus Seven | |
| Make | Lotus | Lotus |
| Model | Esprit | Seven |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1957 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2172 cc | 1172 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 38 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4500 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 | 1067 kg | 445 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 3280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1350 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2240 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 31 L | 29 L |
