1991 Caterham Super 7 vs. 2008 Kia Magentis
To start off, 2008 Kia Magentis is newer by 17 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 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Kia Magentis is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Kia Magentis (134 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1991 Caterham Super 7. (110 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Kia Magentis should accelerate faster than 1991 Caterham Super 7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Kia Magentis weights approximately 968 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, 2008 Kia Magentis, 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, 2008 Kia Magentis (180 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Caterham Super 7. (132 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2008 Kia Magentis will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Caterham Super 7. 2008 Kia Magentis 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. 2008 Kia Magentis will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Caterham Super 7 | 2008 Kia Magentis | |
| Make | Caterham | Kia |
| Model | Super 7 | Magentis |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1599 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 132 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.6 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 171 km/hour | 207 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 510 kg | 1478 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3380 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 36 L | 65 L |
