1991 Caterham Super 7 vs. 2008 Ford Focus
To start off, 2008 Ford Focus is newer by 17 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 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford Focus (140 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1991 Caterham Super 7. (84 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1991 Caterham Super 7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Ford Focus weights approximately 597 kg more than 1991 Caterham Super 7. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2008 Ford Focus, 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, 2008 Ford Focus (184 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Caterham Super 7. (124 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Focus 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 | 2008 Ford Focus | |
| Make | Caterham | Ford |
| Model | Super 7 | Focus |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1599 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 84 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 184 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.6 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 510 kg | 1107 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3380 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 2000 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 36 L | 51 L |
