1991 Caterham Super 7 vs. 2012 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 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 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mazda 3 (167 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 83 more horse power than 1991 Caterham Super 7. (84 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1991 Caterham Super 7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mazda 3 weights approximately 873 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 Mazda 3, 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 Mazda 3 (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 104 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Caterham Super 7. (124 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Mazda 3 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 Mazda 3 | |
Make | Caterham | Mazda |
Model | Super 7 | 3 |
Year Released | 1991 | 2012 |
Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1599 cc | 2500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 84 HP | 167 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 124 Nm | 228 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 510 kg | 1383 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3380 mm | 4506 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1755 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1471 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2639 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 36 L | 60 L |