1996 Caterham 7 vs. 2003 Oldsmobile Alero
To start off, 2003 Oldsmobile Alero 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 2,196 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Oldsmobile Alero is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Oldsmobile Alero (139 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 1996 Caterham 7. (138 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Oldsmobile Alero should accelerate faster than 1996 Caterham 7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Oldsmobile Alero weights approximately 882 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 Oldsmobile Alero, 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 Oldsmobile Alero (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Caterham 7. (156 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2003 Oldsmobile Alero will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Caterham 7. 2003 Oldsmobile Alero 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 Oldsmobile Alero will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Caterham 7 | 2003 Oldsmobile Alero | |
Make | Caterham | Oldsmobile |
Model | 7 | Alero |
Year Released | 1996 | 2003 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2196 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 139 HP |
Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 156 Nm | 203 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 478 kg | 1360 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4750 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1790 mm |
Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1390 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2720 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 36 L | 53 L |