2004 Caterham 7 vs. 1989 Ford Laser
To start off, 2004 Caterham 7 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Ford Laser. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Ford Laser 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 134 more horse power than 1989 Ford Laser. (66 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Laser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Ford Laser weights approximately 260 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, 1989 Ford Laser, 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 130 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Laser. (94 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2004 Caterham 7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Laser. 1989 Ford Laser has automatic transmission and 2004 Caterham 7 has manual transmission. 2004 Caterham 7 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1989 Ford Laser will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Caterham 7 | 1989 Ford Laser | |
| Make | Caterham | Ford |
| Model | 7 | Laser |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2261 cc | 1294 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 66 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 224 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5750 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 540 kg | 800 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3310 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2410 mm |
