1996 Caterham 7 vs. 2004 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2004 Nissan Altima 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 2,491 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Nissan Altima (170 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1996 Caterham 7. (138 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 1996 Caterham 7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Nissan Altima weights approximately 931 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, 2004 Nissan Altima, 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 Nissan Altima (237 Nm) has 81 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Caterham 7. (156 Nm). This means 2004 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Caterham 7.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Caterham 7 | 2004 Nissan Altima | |
| Make | Caterham | Nissan |
| Model | 7 | Altima |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2491 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 156 Nm | 237 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 478 kg | 1409 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2830 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 36 L | 76 L |
