1991 Caterham Super 7 vs. 2005 Kia Shuma II
To start off, 2005 Kia Shuma II is newer by 14 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 1,792 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Kia Shuma II is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Caterham Super 7 (110 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 2005 Kia Shuma II. (109 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Caterham Super 7 should accelerate faster than 2005 Kia Shuma II. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Kia Shuma II weights approximately 696 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, 2005 Kia Shuma II, 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, 2005 Kia Shuma II (157 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Caterham Super 7. (132 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2005 Kia Shuma II will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Caterham Super 7. 2005 Kia Shuma II has automatic transmission and 1991 Caterham Super 7 has manual transmission. 1991 Caterham Super 7 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Kia Shuma II will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Caterham Super 7 | 2005 Kia Shuma II | |
| Make | Caterham | Kia |
| Model | Super 7 | Shuma II |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1599 cc | 1792 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 132 Nm | 157 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.6 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 171 km/hour | 196 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 510 kg | 1206 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3380 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 36 L | 50 L |
