2004 Caterham 7 vs. 1974 Renault 12
To start off, 2004 Caterham 7 is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Renault 12 would be higher. At 2,261 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Caterham 7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Caterham 7 (200 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 147 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Renault 12 weights approximately 410 kg more than 2004 Caterham 7.
Because 2004 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 2004 Caterham 7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1974 Renault 12, 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, 2004 Caterham 7 (224 Nm @ 5750 RPM) has 128 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Caterham 7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Caterham 7 | 1974 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Caterham | Renault |
| Model | 7 | 12 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2261 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 224 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 540 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3310 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2450 mm |
