1991 Caterham Super 7 vs. 2012 Hyundai ix35
To start off, 2012 Hyundai ix35 is newer by 21 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, 2012 Hyundai ix35 (133 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1991 Caterham Super 7. (110 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Hyundai ix35 should accelerate faster than 1991 Caterham Super 7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Hyundai ix35 weights approximately 917 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, 2012 Hyundai ix35, 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, 2012 Hyundai ix35 (164 Nm @ 4850 RPM) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Caterham Super 7. (132 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2012 Hyundai ix35 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 | 2012 Hyundai ix35 | |
| Make | Caterham | Hyundai |
| Model | Super 7 | ix35 |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Roadster | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1599 cc | 1591 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 133 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 132 Nm | 164 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4850 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.6 mm | 85.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 11:01 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 510 kg | 1427 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3380 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1660 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2640 mm |
