1995 Lotus Elan vs. 1969 Lotus Seven
To start off, 1995 Lotus Elan is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Lotus Seven. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Lotus Seven would be higher. At 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1995 Lotus Elan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 Lotus Elan (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1969 Lotus Seven. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1995 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1969 Lotus Seven. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 Lotus Elan weights approximately 444 kg more than 1969 Lotus Seven. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1969 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 1969 Lotus Seven. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1995 Lotus Elan, 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. Let's talk about torque, 1995 Lotus Elan (204 Nm) has 81 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Lotus Seven. (123 Nm). This means 1995 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Lotus Seven.
Compare all specifications:
1995 Lotus Elan | 1969 Lotus Seven | |
Make | Lotus | Lotus |
Model | Elan | Seven |
Year Released | 1995 | 1969 |
Body Type | Convertible | Roadster |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1558 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 163 HP | 114 HP |
Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 204 Nm | 123 Nm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 576 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 3380 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1560 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 950 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2240 mm |