2003 Caterham 7 vs. 1980 Simca 1100
To start off, 2003 Caterham 7 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Simca 1100. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Simca 1100 would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Caterham 7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Caterham 7 (200 HP @ 7500 RPM) has 141 more horse power than 1980 Simca 1100. (59 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 1980 Simca 1100. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Simca 1100 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, 1980 Simca 1100, 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 (210 Nm @ 5750 RPM) has 124 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Simca 1100. (86 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2003 Caterham 7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Simca 1100.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Caterham 7 | 1980 Simca 1100 | |
| Make | Caterham | Simca |
| Model | 7 | 1100 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1118 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7500 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 86 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5750 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 490 kg | 910 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2530 mm |
