1997 Lotus Elise vs. 1962 Lotus Seven
To start off, 1997 Lotus Elise is newer by 35 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 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Lotus Elise is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Lotus Elise (117 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 1962 Lotus Seven. (38 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1962 Lotus Seven. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Lotus Elise weights approximately 275 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:
| 1997 Lotus Elise | 1962 Lotus Seven | |
| Make | Lotus | Lotus |
| Model | Elise | Seven |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1962 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 117 HP | 38 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 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 | 705 kg | 430 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3730 mm | 3360 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1490 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1210 mm | 1100 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2240 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 29 L |
