1996 Caterham 7 vs. 1972 Simca 1301
To start off, 1996 Caterham 7 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Simca 1301. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Simca 1301 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 87 more horse power than 1972 Simca 1301. (51 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 1972 Simca 1301. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Simca 1301 weights approximately 562 kg more than 1996 Caterham 7.
Let's talk about torque, 1996 Caterham 7 (156 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Simca 1301. (100 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1996 Caterham 7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Simca 1301.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Caterham 7 | 1972 Simca 1301 | |
| Make | Caterham | Simca |
| Model | 7 | 1301 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 51 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 156 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 478 kg | 1040 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4330 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2530 mm |
