1991 Caterham Super 7 vs. 1999 Kia Rio
To start off, 1999 Kia Rio is newer by 8 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 23 more horse power than 1999 Kia Rio. (97 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Caterham Super 7 should accelerate faster than 1999 Kia Rio. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Kia Rio weights approximately 435 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, 1999 Kia Rio, 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, both vehicles can yield 143 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Caterham Super 7 | 1999 Kia Rio | |
| Make | Caterham | Kia |
| Model | Super 7 | Rio |
| Year Released | 1991 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1599 cc | 1493 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 97 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 143 Nm | 143 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 510 kg | 945 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3380 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2420 mm |
