2004 Caterham 7 vs. 1976 Seat 127
To start off, 2004 Caterham 7 is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Seat 127. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Seat 127 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 204 more horse power than 1976 Seat 127. (47 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 1976 Seat 127. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Seat 127 weights approximately 235 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, 1976 Seat 127, 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 (258 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 195 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Seat 127. (63 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2004 Caterham 7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Seat 127.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Caterham 7 | 1976 Seat 127 | |
| Make | Caterham | Seat |
| Model | 7 | 127 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 903 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 251 HP | 47 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 258 Nm | 63 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 470 kg | 705 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 3600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1530 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2230 mm |
