1996 Caterham 7 vs. 1956 Ford 12 M
To start off, 1996 Caterham 7 is newer by 40 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Ford 12 M. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Ford 12 M would be higher. At 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Caterham 7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Caterham 7 (138 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 101 more horse power than 1956 Ford 12 M. (37 HP @ 4250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 1956 Ford 12 M.
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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Caterham 7 | 1956 Ford 12 M | |
| Make | Caterham | Ford |
| Model | 7 | 12 M |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1956 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1172 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 37 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2500 mm |
