UK vs UK — 1957 vs 1949
| Seven Series 2 | DB1 2-Litre Sports | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 95 hp | 90 hp |
| Torque | 90 lb-ft | 110 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 1,498 cc | 1,970 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 7.0 sec | 14.2 sec |
| Top Speed | 102 mph | 93 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 15.0 sec | — |
| Weight | 1,014 lbs | 2,359 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,235 mm | 2,743 mm |
| Length | 3,340 mm | 4,140 mm |
| Units Produced | 1,350 | 15 |
| Original MSRP | $1,950 | — |
| Value (Excellent) | $80,000 | $900,000 |
| Collectibility | 8/10 | 10/10 |
| Rarity | 7/10 | 10/10 |
On balance, the 1957 Lotus Seven Series 2 makes a stronger case on paper with quicker acceleration, higher top speed, lighter weight. However, the 1949 Aston Martin DB1 2-Litre Sports counters with greater rarity, stronger collectibility, and its appeal extends beyond mere numbers. Choose the 1957 Lotus Seven Series 2 for outright capability, or the 1949 Aston Martin DB1 2-Litre Sports for a more distinctive ownership experience.
In the world of Sports Car cars, few comparisons generate as much discussion as the 1957 Lotus Seven Series 2 versus the 1949 Aston Martin DB1 2-Litre Sports. Both hail from Post-war and represent the pinnacle of their respective manufacturers' ambitions. On paper, the two are remarkably close in power output, with the 1957 Lotus Seven Series 2 producing 95 hp and the 1949 Aston Martin DB1 2-Litre Sports delivering 90 hp. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Lotus Seven uses a Inline-4 OHV displacing 1,498 cc, while the Aston Martin DB1 relies on a Inline-4 DOHC with 1,970 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1957 Lotus Seven Series 2 edges ahead at 7.0 seconds versus 14.2 seconds. The Lotus Seven carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 1345 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 15 units built, the 1949 Aston Martin DB1 2-Litre Sports is considerably scarcer than the Lotus Seven's 1,350 examples. On the collector market, the 1949 Aston Martin DB1 2-Litre Sports commands a significant premium over the 1957 Lotus Seven Series 2, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1949 Aston Martin DB1 2-Litre Sports rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.