1992 Caterham Super 7 vs. 2011 Mazda CX-9
To start off, 2011 Mazda CX-9 is newer by 19 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 3,700 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Mazda CX-9 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mazda CX-9 (273 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1992 Caterham Super 7. (251 HP @ 7750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda CX-9 should accelerate faster than 1992 Caterham Super 7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mazda CX-9 weights approximately 1424 kg more than 1992 Caterham Super 7. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2011 Mazda CX-9, 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, 2011 Mazda CX-9 (366 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 116 more torque (in Nm) than 1992 Caterham Super 7. (250 Nm @ 6250 RPM). This means 2011 Mazda CX-9 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1992 Caterham Super 7. 2011 Mazda CX-9 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. 2011 Mazda CX-9 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1992 Caterham Super 7 | 2011 Mazda CX-9 | |
| Make | Caterham | Mazda |
| Model | Super 7 | CX-9 |
| Year Released | 1992 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Roadster | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 3700 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 251 HP | 273 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7750 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 366 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 6250 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| 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 | 1964 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3390 mm | 5085 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1935 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1130 mm | 1727 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2875 mm |
