2004 Caterham 7 vs. 1974 Renault 15
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 15. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Renault 15 would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Caterham 7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Caterham 7 (251 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 192 more horse power than 1974 Renault 15. (59 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 15. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Renault 15 weights approximately 495 kg more than 2004 Caterham 7.
Let's talk about torque, 2004 Caterham 7 (258 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 160 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 15. (98 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2004 Caterham 7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 15.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Caterham 7 | 1974 Renault 15 | |
| Make | Caterham | Renault |
| Model | 7 | 15 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1287 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 251 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 258 Nm | 98 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 470 kg | 965 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2440 mm |
