1996 Caterham 7 vs. 2001 Kia Retona
To start off, 2001 Kia Retona 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Kia Retona is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Caterham 7 (138 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 2001 Kia Retona. (90 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 2001 Kia Retona. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Kia Retona weights approximately 1392 kg more than 1996 Caterham 7.
Because 2001 Kia Retona is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Caterham 7. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Kia Retona will offer significantly more control. 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 Kia Retona (205 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Caterham 7. (156 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2001 Kia Retona will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Caterham 7.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Caterham 7 | 2001 Kia Retona | |
| Make | Caterham | Kia |
| Model | 7 | Retona |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 156 Nm | 205 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 478 kg | 1870 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4010 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1840 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2370 mm |
