1994 Caterham Seven vs. 1981 Ferrari 400
To start off, 1994 Caterham Seven is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Ferrari 400. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Ferrari 400 would be higher. At 4,823 cc (12 cylinders), 1981 Ferrari 400 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Ferrari 400 (310 HP) has 145 more horse power than 1994 Caterham Seven. (165 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Ferrari 400 should accelerate faster than 1994 Caterham Seven. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Ferrari 400 weights approximately 1290 kg more than 1994 Caterham Seven. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1981 Ferrari 400 (392 Nm) has 189 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 Caterham Seven. (203 Nm). This means 1981 Ferrari 400 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1994 Caterham Seven.
Compare all specifications:
| 1994 Caterham Seven | 1981 Ferrari 400 | |
| Make | Caterham | Ferrari |
| Model | Seven | 400 |
| Year Released | 1994 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 4823 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 165 HP | 310 HP |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 392 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.1 mm | 81.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.1 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 540 kg | 1830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3400 mm | 4820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1090 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2710 mm |
