2005 Lotus Elise vs. 1970 Lotus Seven
To start off, 2005 Lotus Elise is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Lotus Seven. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Lotus Seven would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Lotus Elise is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Lotus Elise (189 HP @ 7800 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 1970 Lotus Seven. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1970 Lotus Seven. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Lotus Elise weights approximately 280 kg more than 1970 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:
| 2005 Lotus Elise | 1970 Lotus Seven | |
| Make | Lotus | Lotus |
| Model | Elise | Seven |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1970 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1557 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | 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 | 850 kg | 570 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 3380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 950 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2240 mm |
