1991 Caterham Super 7 vs. 2000 Smart ForFour
To start off, 2000 Smart ForFour is newer by 9 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 1,599 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 2000 Smart ForFour. (108 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Caterham Super 7 should accelerate faster than 2000 Smart ForFour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Smart ForFour weights approximately 465 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, 2000 Smart ForFour, 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. 2000 Smart ForFour has automatic transmission and 1991 Caterham Super 7 has manual transmission. 1991 Caterham Super 7 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2000 Smart ForFour will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Caterham Super 7 | 2000 Smart ForFour | |
| Make | Caterham | Smart |
| Model | Super 7 | ForFour |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2000 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1599 cc | 1499 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 510 kg | 975 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3380 mm | 3760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1460 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 36 L | 47 L |
