1996 Caterham 7 vs. 2005 Mercury Mariner
To start off, 2005 Mercury Mariner is newer by 9 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 2,262 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Mercury Mariner is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercury Mariner (153 HP) has 15 more horse power than 1996 Caterham 7. (138 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercury Mariner should accelerate faster than 1996 Caterham 7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercury Mariner weights approximately 1001 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, 2005 Mercury Mariner, 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, 2005 Mercury Mariner (206 Nm) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Caterham 7. (156 Nm). This means 2005 Mercury Mariner will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Caterham 7.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Caterham 7 | 2005 Mercury Mariner | |
| Make | Caterham | Mercury |
| Model | 7 | Mariner |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2262 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 153 HP |
| Torque | 156 Nm | 206 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 478 kg | 1479 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1730 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 36 L | 62 L |
