2004 Caterham 7 vs. 1978 Seat 124
To start off, 2004 Caterham 7 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Seat 124. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Seat 124 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 157 more horse power than 1978 Seat 124. (94 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 1978 Seat 124. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Seat 124 weights approximately 500 kg more than 2004 Caterham 7.
Let's talk about torque, 2004 Caterham 7 (258 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Seat 124. (128 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Caterham 7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Seat 124.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Caterham 7 | 1978 Seat 124 | |
| Make | Caterham | Seat |
| Model | 7 | 124 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1590 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 251 HP | 94 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 258 Nm | 128 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 470 kg | 970 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2430 mm |
