2003 Caterham 7 vs. 1974 Simca 1301
To start off, 2003 Caterham 7 is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Simca 1301. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Simca 1301 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 109 more horse power than 1974 Simca 1301. (51 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 1974 Simca 1301. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Simca 1301 weights approximately 540 kg more than 2003 Caterham 7.
Let's talk about torque, 2003 Caterham 7 (176 Nm @ 5750 RPM) has 76 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Simca 1301. (100 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2003 Caterham 7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Simca 1301.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Caterham 7 | 1974 Simca 1301 | |
| Make | Caterham | Simca |
| Model | 7 | 1301 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1794 cc | 1290 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 51 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5750 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 74.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89.3 mm | 75 mm |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 500 kg | 1040 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4330 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2530 mm |
