1991 Caterham Super 7 vs. 1971 Renault 17
To start off, 1991 Caterham Super 7 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Renault 17. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Renault 17 would be higher. At 1,599 cc (4 cylinders), 1991 Caterham Super 7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Caterham Super 7 (120 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1971 Renault 17. (108 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Caterham Super 7 should accelerate faster than 1971 Renault 17. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Renault 17 weights approximately 545 kg more than 1991 Caterham Super 7.
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, 1971 Renault 17, 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, 1991 Caterham Super 7 (143 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Renault 17. (133 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1991 Caterham Super 7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Renault 17.
Compare all specifications:
1991 Caterham Super 7 | 1971 Renault 17 | |
Make | Caterham | Renault |
Model | Super 7 | 17 |
Year Released | 1991 | 1971 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1599 cc | 1565 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 120 HP | 108 HP |
Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 143 Nm | 133 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 77 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 77.6 mm | 84 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.3:1 |
Top Speed | 180 km/hour | 180 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 510 kg | 1055 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3380 mm | 4270 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1640 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1320 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2440 mm |