1991 Caterham Super 7 vs. 1999 Kia Shuma
To start off, 1999 Kia Shuma 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 1,793 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Kia Shuma is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Caterham Super 7 (120 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1999 Kia Shuma. (109 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Caterham Super 7 should accelerate faster than 1999 Kia Shuma. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Kia Shuma weights approximately 600 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 Shuma, 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, 1999 Kia Shuma (155 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Caterham Super 7. (143 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1999 Kia Shuma will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Caterham Super 7.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Caterham Super 7 | 1999 Kia Shuma | |
| Make | Caterham | Kia |
| Model | Super 7 | Shuma |
| Year Released | 1991 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1599 cc | 1793 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 143 Nm | 155 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 510 kg | 1110 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3380 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2570 mm |
