1991 Caterham Super 7 vs. 2011 Kia Optima
To start off, 2011 Kia Optima is newer by 20 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 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Kia Optima (200 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 1991 Caterham Super 7. (120 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1991 Caterham Super 7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Kia Optima weights approximately 952 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, 2011 Kia Optima, 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, 2011 Kia Optima (252 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 109 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Caterham Super 7. (143 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2011 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Caterham Super 7. 2011 Kia Optima 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. 2011 Kia Optima will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Caterham Super 7 | 2011 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Caterham | Kia |
| Model | Super 7 | Optima |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1599 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 143 Nm | 252 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| 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 | 1462 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3380 mm | 4844 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1831 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1455 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2797 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 36 L | 70 L |
