1995 Caterham Super 7 vs. 2009 Ford Focus
To start off, 2009 Ford Focus is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 Caterham Super 7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 Caterham Super 7 would be higher. At 1,596 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 Caterham Super 7 (138 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 2009 Ford Focus. (113 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1995 Caterham Super 7 should accelerate faster than 2009 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Ford Focus weights approximately 718 kg more than 1995 Caterham Super 7.
Because 1995 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 1995 Caterham Super 7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Ford Focus (250 Nm @ 1850 RPM) has 94 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 Caterham Super 7. (156 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 Caterham Super 7.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 Caterham Super 7 | 2009 Ford Focus | |
| Make | Caterham | Ford |
| Model | Super 7 | Focus |
| Year Released | 1995 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 156 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 1850 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 185 km/hour | 196 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 554 kg | 1272 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3390 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1100 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 30 L | 55 L |
