1991 Caterham Super 7 vs. 2009 Proton Arena
To start off, 2009 Proton Arena is newer by 18 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 (110 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 2009 Proton Arena. (86 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Caterham Super 7 should accelerate faster than 2009 Proton Arena. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Proton Arena weights approximately 525 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, 2009 Proton Arena, 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, 1991 Caterham Super 7 (132 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Proton Arena. (124 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1991 Caterham Super 7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Proton Arena.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Caterham Super 7 | 2009 Proton Arena | |
| Make | Caterham | Proton |
| Model | Super 7 | Arena |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1599 cc | 1468 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 86 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 132 Nm | 124 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 75.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.6 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Top Speed | 171 km/hour | 155 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 510 kg | 1035 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3380 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1500 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1720 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 36 L | 50 L |
