2001 Lotus Elise vs. 1959 Lotus Seven
To start off, 2001 Lotus Elise is newer by 42 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 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Lotus Elise is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Lotus Elise (120 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 84 more horse power than 1959 Lotus Seven. (36 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1959 Lotus Seven. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Lotus Elise weights approximately 310 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.
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:
| 2001 Lotus Elise | 1959 Lotus Seven | |
| Make | Lotus | Lotus |
| Model | Elise | Seven |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1959 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 947 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 36 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4800 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 | 750 kg | 440 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 3280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1350 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2240 mm |
