1996 Caterham 7 vs. 1974 Steyr 126
To start off, 1996 Caterham 7 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Steyr 126. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Steyr 126 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 114 more horse power than 1974 Steyr 126. (24 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 1974 Steyr 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Steyr 126 weights approximately 107 kg more than 1996 Caterham 7.
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 | 1974 Steyr 126 | |
| Make | Caterham | Steyr |
| Model | 7 | 126 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1974 |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 641 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 24 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 478 kg | 585 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 3060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1380 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 1850 mm |
