1995 Caterham Super 7 vs. 1981 Talbot Samba
To start off, 1995 Caterham Super 7 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Talbot Samba. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Talbot Samba would be higher. At 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1995 Caterham Super 7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 Caterham Super 7 (138 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 94 more horse power than 1981 Talbot Samba. (44 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1995 Caterham Super 7 should accelerate faster than 1981 Talbot Samba. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Talbot Samba weights approximately 186 kg more than 1995 Caterham Super 7.
Let's talk about torque, 1995 Caterham Super 7 (156 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 91 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Talbot Samba. (65 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1995 Caterham Super 7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Talbot Samba.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 Caterham Super 7 | 1981 Talbot Samba | |
| Make | Caterham | Talbot |
| Model | Super 7 | Samba |
| Year Released | 1995 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 953 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 44 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 156 Nm | 65 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 70 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 62 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 554 kg | 740 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3390 mm | 3520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1100 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2350 mm |
