2003 Caterham 7 vs. 1973 Honda 145
To start off, 2003 Caterham 7 is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Honda 145. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Honda 145 would be higher. At 1,794 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Caterham 7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Caterham 7 (160 HP @ 7500 RPM) has 92 more horse power than 1973 Honda 145. (68 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 1973 Honda 145. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Honda 145 weights approximately 420 kg more than 2003 Caterham 7.
Because 2003 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 2003 Caterham 7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1973 Honda 145, 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, 2003 Caterham 7 (176 Nm @ 5750 RPM) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Honda 145. (118 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Caterham 7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Honda 145.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Caterham 7 | 1973 Honda 145 | |
| Make | Caterham | Honda |
| Model | 7 | 145 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1794 cc | 1433 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 68 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 118 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5750 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 500 kg | 920 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1500 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2260 mm |
