1996 Caterham 7 vs. 1989 Ford Escort
To start off, 1996 Caterham 7 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Ford Escort would be higher. At 1,700 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Ford Escort is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Caterham 7 (138 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 1989 Ford Escort. (59 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Escort.
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, 1989 Ford Escort, 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 47 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Escort. (109 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1996 Caterham 7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Caterham 7 | 1989 Ford Escort | |
| Make | Caterham | Ford |
| Model | 7 | Escort |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1700 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 156 Nm | 109 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 36 L | 45 L |
