1996 Caterham 7 vs. 2000 Saturn LW
To start off, 2000 Saturn LW is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Caterham 7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Caterham 7 would be higher. At 2,198 cc (4 cylinders), 2000 Saturn LW is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Caterham 7 (138 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 2000 Saturn LW. (136 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 2000 Saturn LW. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Saturn LW weights approximately 920 kg more than 1996 Caterham 7.
Because 1996 Caterham 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 1996 Caterham 7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2000 Saturn LW, 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, 2000 Saturn LW (193 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Caterham 7. (156 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2000 Saturn LW will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Caterham 7. 2000 Saturn LW has automatic transmission and 1996 Caterham 7 has manual transmission. 1996 Caterham 7 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2000 Saturn LW will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Caterham 7 | 2000 Saturn LW | |
Make | Caterham | Saturn |
Model | 7 | LW |
Year Released | 1996 | 2000 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2198 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 136 HP |
Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 156 Nm | 193 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 478 kg | 1398 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4840 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2710 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 36 L | 60 L |