1995 Caterham Super 7 vs. 2009 Kia Magentis
To start off, 2009 Kia Magentis is newer by 14 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 2,655 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Kia Magentis is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Kia Magentis (185 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1995 Caterham Super 7. (138 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Kia Magentis should accelerate faster than 1995 Caterham Super 7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Kia Magentis weights approximately 1011 kg more than 1995 Caterham Super 7. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2009 Kia Magentis, 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, 2009 Kia Magentis (247 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 91 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 Caterham Super 7. (156 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2009 Kia Magentis will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 Caterham Super 7. 2009 Kia Magentis has automatic transmission and 1995 Caterham Super 7 has manual transmission. 1995 Caterham Super 7 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Kia Magentis will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 Caterham Super 7 | 2009 Kia Magentis | |
| Make | Caterham | Kia |
| Model | Super 7 | Magentis |
| Year Released | 1995 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2655 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 156 Nm | 247 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 86.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.4:1 |
| Top Speed | 185 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 554 kg | 1565 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3390 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1100 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 30 L | 62 L |
