1991 Caterham Super 7 vs. 1979 Simca 1308
To start off, 1991 Caterham Super 7 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Simca 1308. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Simca 1308 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 (84 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1979 Simca 1308. (67 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Caterham Super 7 should accelerate faster than 1979 Simca 1308. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Simca 1308 weights approximately 530 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, 1979 Simca 1308, 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 (124 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Simca 1308. (107 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1991 Caterham Super 7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Simca 1308.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Caterham Super 7 | 1979 Simca 1308 | |
| Make | Caterham | Simca |
| Model | Super 7 | 1308 |
| Year Released | 1991 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1599 cc | 1292 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 84 HP | 67 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 107 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 76.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.6 mm | 70 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 510 kg | 1040 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3380 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 36 L | 58 L |
