1996 Caterham 7 vs. 2003 Pontiac Vibe
To start off, 2003 Pontiac Vibe 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 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Pontiac Vibe is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Caterham 7 (138 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 2003 Pontiac Vibe. (123 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 2003 Pontiac Vibe. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Pontiac Vibe weights approximately 747 kg more than 1996 Caterham 7.
Because 2003 Pontiac Vibe 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, 2003 Pontiac Vibe 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, 2003 Pontiac Vibe (160 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Caterham 7. (156 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2003 Pontiac Vibe will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Caterham 7.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Caterham 7 | 2003 Pontiac Vibe | |
| Make | Caterham | Pontiac |
| Model | 7 | Vibe |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 156 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 478 kg | 1225 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 36 L | 45 L |
