1996 Caterham 7 vs. 1983 Ford Tempo
To start off, 1996 Caterham 7 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Ford Tempo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Ford Tempo would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1983 Ford Tempo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Caterham 7 (138 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 87 more horse power than 1983 Ford Tempo. (51 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 1983 Ford Tempo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Ford Tempo weights approximately 632 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, 1983 Ford Tempo, 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 44 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Ford Tempo. (112 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1996 Caterham 7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Ford Tempo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Caterham 7 | 1983 Ford Tempo | |
| Make | Caterham | Ford |
| Model | 7 | Tempo |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 51 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 156 Nm | 112 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 478 kg | 1110 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2540 mm |
