1996 Caterham 7 vs. 2004 Nissan X-Trail
To start off, 2004 Nissan X-Trail 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Nissan X-Trail is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 138 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Nissan X-Trail weights approximately 1037 kg more than 1996 Caterham 7.
Because 2004 Nissan X-Trail 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, 2004 Nissan X-Trail 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, 2004 Nissan X-Trail (192 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Caterham 7. (156 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2004 Nissan X-Trail will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Caterham 7. 2004 Nissan X-Trail 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. 2004 Nissan X-Trail will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Caterham 7 | 2004 Nissan X-Trail | |
| Make | Caterham | Nissan |
| Model | 7 | X-Trail |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 156 Nm | 192 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.9:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 478 kg | 1515 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 36 L | 60 L |
