1991 Caterham Super 7 vs. 1969 Renault 12
To start off, 1991 Caterham Super 7 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Renault 12 would be higher. At 1,599 cc (4 cylinders), 1991 Caterham Super 7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1969 Renault 12 (113 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 1991 Caterham Super 7. (84 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1969 Renault 12 should accelerate faster than 1991 Caterham Super 7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1969 Renault 12 weights approximately 420 kg more than 1991 Caterham Super 7. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1991 Caterham Super 7 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 1991 Caterham Super 7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1969 Renault 12, 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. Let's talk about torque, 1969 Renault 12 (140 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Caterham Super 7. (124 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1969 Renault 12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Caterham Super 7.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Caterham Super 7 | 1969 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Caterham | Renault |
| Model | Super 7 | 12 |
| Year Released | 1991 | 1969 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1599 cc | 1565 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 84 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 510 kg | 930 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3380 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 36 L | 89 L |
