1991 Caterham Super 7 vs. 2012 Scion tC
To start off, 2012 Scion tC is newer by 21 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 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Scion tC is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Scion tC (180 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1991 Caterham Super 7. (120 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Scion tC should accelerate faster than 1991 Caterham Super 7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Scion tC weights approximately 878 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, 2012 Scion tC, 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, 2012 Scion tC (234 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 91 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Caterham Super 7. (143 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2012 Scion tC 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 | 2012 Scion tC | |
| Make | Caterham | Scion |
| Model | Super 7 | tC |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1599 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 180 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 143 Nm | 234 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 510 kg | 1388 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3380 mm | 4420 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1796 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1415 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 36 L | 55 L |
