1996 Caterham 7 vs. 2003 Kia Opirus
To start off, 2003 Kia Opirus is newer by 7 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 3,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Kia Opirus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Kia Opirus (196 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 1996 Caterham 7. (138 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Kia Opirus should accelerate faster than 1996 Caterham 7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Kia Opirus weights approximately 1282 kg more than 1996 Caterham 7. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2003 Kia Opirus, 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, 2003 Kia Opirus (295 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 139 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Caterham 7. (156 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2003 Kia Opirus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Caterham 7. 2003 Kia Opirus 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. 2003 Kia Opirus will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Caterham 7 | 2003 Kia Opirus | |
Make | Caterham | Kia |
Model | 7 | Opirus |
Year Released | 1996 | 2003 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1588 cc | 3497 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 196 HP |
Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 156 Nm | 295 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 478 kg | 1760 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4960 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1860 mm |
Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1490 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2810 mm |