1995 Caterham Super 7 vs. 2003 Rover 45
To start off, 2003 Rover 45 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 Caterham Super 7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 Caterham Super 7 would be higher. At 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1995 Caterham Super 7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 Caterham Super 7 (138 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 2003 Rover 45. (102 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1995 Caterham Super 7 should accelerate faster than 2003 Rover 45. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Rover 45 weights approximately 556 kg more than 1995 Caterham Super 7.
Because 1995 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 1995 Caterham Super 7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Rover 45, 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, 1995 Caterham Super 7 (156 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Rover 45. (123 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1995 Caterham Super 7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Rover 45.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 Caterham Super 7 | 2003 Rover 45 | |
| Make | Caterham | Rover |
| Model | Super 7 | 45 |
| Year Released | 1995 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1396 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 102 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 156 Nm | 123 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 554 kg | 1110 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3390 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1100 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 30 L | 54 L |
