1991 Caterham Super 7 vs. 2006 Hyundai Elantra

To start off, 2006 Hyundai Elantra is newer by 15 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 1,982 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Hyundai Elantra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Hyundai Elantra (138 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1991 Caterham Super 7. (120 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Hyundai Elantra should accelerate faster than 1991 Caterham Super 7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Hyundai Elantra weights approximately 940 kg more than 1991 Caterham Super 7. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

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, 2006 Hyundai Elantra, 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, 2006 Hyundai Elantra (184 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Caterham Super 7. (143 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2006 Hyundai Elantra 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 2006 Hyundai Elantra
Make Caterham Hyundai
Model Super 7 Elantra
Year Released 1991 2006
Body Type Roadster Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1599 cc 1982 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 120 HP 138 HP
Engine RPM 6200 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 143 Nm 184 Nm
Torque RPM 5500 RPM 4500 RPM
Engine Bore Size 81 mm 82 mm
Engine Stroke Size 77.6 mm 93.5 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 9.5:1 10.0:1
Top Speed 180 km/hour 208 km/hour
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 2 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 510 kg 1450 kg
Vehicle Length 3380 mm 4530 mm
Vehicle Width 1670 mm 1730 mm
Vehicle Height 1110 mm 1430 mm
Wheelbase Size 2240 mm 2620 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 36 L 55 L