1996 Caterham 7 vs. 2004 Citroen Xsara
To start off, 2004 Citroen Xsara is newer by 8 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 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Citroen Xsara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Caterham 7 (138 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 2004 Citroen Xsara. (134 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 2004 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 770 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, 2004 Citroen Xsara, 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, 2004 Citroen Xsara (190 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Caterham 7. (156 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2004 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Caterham 7.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Caterham 7 | 2004 Citroen Xsara | |
Make | Caterham | Citroen |
Model | 7 | Xsara |
Year Released | 1996 | 2004 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1997 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 134 HP |
Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 156 Nm | 190 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4100 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 478 kg | 1248 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4190 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1710 mm |
Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1410 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2550 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 36 L | 54 L |