1991 Caterham Super 7 vs. 1998 Ford Laser
To start off, 1998 Ford Laser is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Caterham Super 7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Caterham Super 7 would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Ford Laser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Caterham Super 7 (120 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1998 Ford Laser. (113 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Caterham Super 7 should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Laser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Ford Laser weights approximately 635 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, 1998 Ford Laser, 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, 1998 Ford Laser (168 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Caterham Super 7. (143 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1998 Ford Laser 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 | 1998 Ford Laser | |
| Make | Caterham | Ford |
| Model | Super 7 | Laser |
| Year Released | 1991 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1599 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 143 Nm | 168 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.6 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 510 kg | 1145 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3380 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 36 L | 53 L |
