2004 Caterham 7 vs. 1998 Ford Laser
To start off, 2004 Caterham 7 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Ford Laser. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Ford Laser 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 123 more horse power than 1998 Ford Laser. (128 HP @ 6150 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Laser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Ford Laser weights approximately 730 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, 1998 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 (258 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 84 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Laser. (174 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2004 Caterham 7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Laser.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Caterham 7 | 1998 Ford Laser | |
| Make | Caterham | Ford |
| Model | 7 | Laser |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 251 HP | 128 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8000 RPM | 6150 RPM |
| Torque | 258 Nm | 174 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 470 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2620 mm |
