2004 Caterham 7 vs. 1991 Caterham Super 7
To start off, 2004 Caterham 7 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Caterham Super 7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Caterham Super 7 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 131 more horse power than 1991 Caterham Super 7. (120 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 1991 Caterham Super 7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Caterham Super 7 weights approximately 40 kg more than 2004 Caterham 7.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 115 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Caterham Super 7. (143 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2004 Caterham 7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Caterham Super 7.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Caterham 7 | 1991 Caterham Super 7 | |
| Make | Caterham | Caterham |
| Model | 7 | Super 7 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1991 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1599 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 251 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 258 Nm | 143 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Top Speed | 241 km/hour | 180 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 470 kg | 510 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 3380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1110 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2240 mm |
