1992 Caterham Super 7 vs. 2008 Proton Arena
To start off, 2008 Proton Arena is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1992 Caterham Super 7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1992 Caterham Super 7 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1992 Caterham Super 7 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Proton Arena weights approximately 495 kg more than 1992 Caterham Super 7.
Because 1992 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 1992 Caterham Super 7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 1992 Caterham Super 7 (250 Nm @ 6250 RPM) has 126 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Proton Arena. (124 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1992 Caterham Super 7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Proton Arena.
Compare all specifications:
| 1992 Caterham Super 7 | 2008 Proton Arena | |
| Make | Caterham | Proton |
| Model | Super 7 | Arena |
| Year Released | 1992 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1468 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 251 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 124 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 6250 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 75.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 540 kg | 1035 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3390 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1130 mm | 1720 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2610 mm |
