1992 Caterham Super 7 vs. 1983 Ford Laser
To start off, 1992 Caterham Super 7 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Ford Laser. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Ford Laser would be higher. At 1,490 cc (4 cylinders), 1983 Ford Laser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1992 Caterham Super 7 (110 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1983 Ford Laser. (85 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1992 Caterham Super 7 should accelerate faster than 1983 Ford Laser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Ford Laser weights approximately 244 kg more than 1992 Caterham Super 7.
Because 1992 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 1992 Caterham Super 7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 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, 1992 Caterham Super 7 (130 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Ford Laser. (121 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1992 Caterham Super 7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Ford Laser.
Compare all specifications:
| 1992 Caterham Super 7 | 1983 Ford Laser | |
| Make | Caterham | Ford |
| Model | Super 7 | Laser |
| Year Released | 1992 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1396 cc | 1490 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 130 Nm | 121 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 546 kg | 790 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3390 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1100 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2370 mm |
