1992 Caterham Super 7 vs. 2012 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 is newer by 20 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1992 Caterham Super 7 (251 HP @ 7750 RPM) has 103 more horse power than 2012 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1992 Caterham Super 7 should accelerate faster than 2012 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mazda 3 weights approximately 760 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, 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, 1992 Caterham Super 7 (250 Nm @ 6250 RPM) has 67 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda 3. (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1992 Caterham Super 7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1992 Caterham Super 7 | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Caterham | Mazda |
| Model | Super 7 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1992 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 251 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7750 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 6250 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 540 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3390 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1130 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2639 mm |
