2003 Caterham 7 vs. 1981 Honda Ballade
To start off, 2003 Caterham 7 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Honda Ballade. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Honda Ballade 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) has 93 more horse power than 1981 Honda Ballade. (67 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 1981 Honda Ballade. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Honda Ballade weights approximately 285 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, 1981 Honda Ballade, 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 68 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Honda Ballade. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Caterham 7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Honda Ballade.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Caterham 7 | 1981 Honda Ballade | |
| Make | Caterham | Honda |
| Model | 7 | Ballade |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1794 cc | 1334 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 67 HP |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89.3 mm | 82 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 500 kg | 785 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1610 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2330 mm |
