2003 Caterham 7 vs. 1987 Renault 5
To start off, 2003 Caterham 7 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Renault 5. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Renault 5 would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Caterham 7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Renault 5 (380 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 180 more horse power than 2003 Caterham 7. (200 HP @ 7500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1987 Renault 5 should accelerate faster than 2003 Caterham 7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Renault 5 weights approximately 596 kg more than 2003 Caterham 7. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Let's talk about torque, 1987 Renault 5 (435 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 225 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Caterham 7. (210 Nm @ 5750 RPM). This means 1987 Renault 5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Caterham 7.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Caterham 7 | 1987 Renault 5 | |
| Make | Caterham | Renault |
| Model | 7 | 5 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1987 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1419 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 380 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7500 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 435 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5750 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 490 kg | 1086 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 3670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2440 mm |
