1996 Caterham 7 vs. 1979 Renault 14
To start off, 1996 Caterham 7 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Renault 14. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Renault 14 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 81 more horse power than 1979 Renault 14. (57 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 1979 Renault 14. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Renault 14 weights approximately 387 kg more than 1996 Caterham 7.
Because 1996 Caterham 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 1996 Caterham 7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 Renault 14, 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, 1996 Caterham 7 (156 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Renault 14. (92 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 Caterham 7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Renault 14.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Caterham 7 | 1979 Renault 14 | |
Make | Caterham | Renault |
Model | 7 | 14 |
Year Released | 1996 | 1979 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1217 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 57 HP |
Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 156 Nm | 92 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.3:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 478 kg | 865 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4030 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1630 mm |
Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1410 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2440 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 36 L | 48 L |