1996 Caterham 7 vs. 2001 Fiat Ecobasic
To start off, 2001 Fiat Ecobasic is newer by 5 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 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Caterham 7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Caterham 7 (138 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 78 more horse power than 2001 Fiat Ecobasic. (60 HP @ 3500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 2001 Fiat Ecobasic. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Fiat Ecobasic weights approximately 278 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, 2001 Fiat Ecobasic, 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, 2001 Fiat Ecobasic (163 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Caterham 7. (156 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2001 Fiat Ecobasic will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Caterham 7. 2001 Fiat Ecobasic 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. 2001 Fiat Ecobasic will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Caterham 7 | 2001 Fiat Ecobasic | |
Make | Caterham | Fiat |
Model | 7 | Ecobasic |
Year Released | 1996 | 2001 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1200 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 60 HP |
Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Torque | 156 Nm | 163 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Vehicle Weight | 478 kg | 756 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 3500 mm |