1998 Ford Focus vs. 1959 Lotus Seven
To start off, 1998 Ford Focus is newer by 39 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 1,753 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Ford Focus (131 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 95 more horse power than 1959 Lotus Seven. (36 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1959 Lotus Seven. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Ford Focus weights approximately 752 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, 1998 Ford Focus, 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:
| 1998 Ford Focus | 1959 Lotus Seven | |
| Make | Ford | Lotus |
| Model | Focus | Seven |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1959 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1753 cc | 947 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 131 HP | 36 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1192 kg | 440 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 3280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1350 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2240 mm |
