1991 Caterham Super 7 vs. 2011 Kia Rio
To start off, 2011 Kia Rio 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 1,600 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Kia Rio is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 110 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Kia Rio weights approximately 618 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, 2011 Kia Rio, 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 Rio (145 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Caterham Super 7. (132 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2011 Kia Rio will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Caterham Super 7. 2011 Kia Rio 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 Rio will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Caterham Super 7 | 2011 Kia Rio | |
| Make | Caterham | Kia |
| Model | Super 7 | Rio |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1599 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 110 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 132 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| 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 | 1128 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3380 mm | 4016 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1694 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2499 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 36 L | 45 L |
