1992 Caterham Super 7 vs. 2009 Kia Rondo
To start off, 2009 Kia Rondo is newer by 17 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 2,656 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Kia Rondo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1992 Caterham Super 7 (251 HP @ 7750 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 2009 Kia Rondo. (198 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1992 Caterham Super 7 should accelerate faster than 2009 Kia Rondo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Kia Rondo weights approximately 745 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, 2009 Kia Rondo, 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, both vehicles can yield 250 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 2009 Kia Rondo has automatic transmission and 1992 Caterham Super 7 has manual transmission. 1992 Caterham Super 7 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Kia Rondo will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1992 Caterham Super 7 | 2009 Kia Rondo | |
| Make | Caterham | Kia |
| Model | Super 7 | Rondo |
| Year Released | 1992 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2656 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 251 HP | 198 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7750 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 6250 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 540 kg | 1285 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3390 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1130 mm | 1710 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2710 mm |
