1988 Lotus Esprit vs. 1957 Lotus Seven
To start off, 1988 Lotus Esprit is newer by 31 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 2,174 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Lotus Esprit (215 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 177 more horse power than 1957 Lotus Seven. (38 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1957 Lotus Seven. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Lotus Esprit weights approximately 743 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:
| 1988 Lotus Esprit | 1957 Lotus Seven | |
| Make | Lotus | Lotus |
| Model | Esprit | Seven |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1957 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2174 cc | 1172 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 38 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 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 | 1188 kg | 445 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 3280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1350 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1160 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2240 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 31 L | 29 L |
