1991 Caterham Super 7 vs. 1996 Mazda 121
To start off, 1996 Mazda 121 is newer by 5 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 1,599 cc (4 cylinders), 1991 Caterham Super 7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Caterham Super 7 (120 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 1996 Mazda 121. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Caterham Super 7 should accelerate faster than 1996 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mazda 121 weights approximately 481 kg more than 1991 Caterham Super 7.
Because 1991 Caterham Super 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 1991 Caterham Super 7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Mazda 121, 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, 1991 Caterham Super 7 (143 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda 121. (103 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1991 Caterham Super 7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Caterham Super 7 | 1996 Mazda 121 | |
| Make | Caterham | Mazda |
| Model | Super 7 | 121 |
| Year Released | 1991 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1599 cc | 1299 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 143 Nm | 103 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 510 kg | 991 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3380 mm | 3830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2460 mm |
