1992 Caterham Super 7 vs. 2009 Lexus IS
To start off, 2009 Lexus IS 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 2,499 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1992 Caterham Super 7 (251 HP @ 7750 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 2009 Lexus IS. (204 HP @ 6400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1992 Caterham Super 7 should accelerate faster than 2009 Lexus IS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Lexus IS weights approximately 1110 kg more than 1992 Caterham Super 7.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2009 Lexus IS (251 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 1992 Caterham Super 7. (250 Nm @ 6250 RPM). This means 2009 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1992 Caterham Super 7. 2009 Lexus IS 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 Lexus IS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1992 Caterham Super 7 | 2009 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Caterham | Lexus |
| Model | Super 7 | IS |
| Year Released | 1992 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2499 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 251 HP | 204 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7750 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 6250 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 235 km/hour | 230 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 540 kg | 1650 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3390 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1130 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2740 mm |
