1991 Caterham Super 7 vs. 1974 Renault 12
To start off, 1991 Caterham Super 7 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 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, 1991 Caterham Super 7 (120 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Caterham Super 7 should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Renault 12 weights approximately 440 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, 1974 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, 1991 Caterham Super 7 (143 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1991 Caterham Super 7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Caterham Super 7 | 1974 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Caterham | Renault |
| Model | Super 7 | 12 |
| Year Released | 1991 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1599 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 143 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 510 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3380 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2450 mm |
