2000 Caterham 7 vs. 1974 Renault 12
To start off, 2000 Caterham 7 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Renault 12 would be higher. At 1,289 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 Renault 12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Caterham 7 (170 HP @ 10750 RPM) has 117 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2000 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Renault 12 weights approximately 510 kg more than 2000 Caterham 7.
Because 2000 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 2000 Caterham 7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1974 Renault 12, 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, 2000 Caterham 7 (125 Nm @ 8250 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2000 Caterham 7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
2000 Caterham 7 | 1974 Renault 12 | |
Make | Caterham | Renault |
Model | 7 | 12 |
Year Released | 2000 | 1974 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1137 cc | 1289 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 170 HP | 53 HP |
Engine RPM | 10750 RPM | 5250 RPM |
Torque | 125 Nm | 96 Nm |
Torque RPM | 8250 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 440 kg | 950 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4410 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1640 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1010 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2450 mm |