2004 Caterham 7 vs. 1959 Lotus Seven
To start off, 2004 Caterham 7 is newer by 45 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 2,261 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Caterham 7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Caterham 7 (200 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 164 more horse power than 1959 Lotus Seven. (36 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 1959 Lotus Seven. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Caterham 7 weights approximately 100 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:
| 2004 Caterham 7 | 1959 Lotus Seven | |
| Make | Caterham | Lotus |
| Model | 7 | Seven |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1959 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2261 cc | 947 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 36 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 540 kg | 440 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3310 mm | 3280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1350 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2240 mm |
