1996 Caterham 7 vs. 2005 Skoda Fabia
To start off, 2005 Skoda Fabia 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 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Skoda Fabia is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Caterham 7 (138 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 2005 Skoda Fabia. (128 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 2005 Skoda Fabia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Skoda Fabia weights approximately 842 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, 2005 Skoda Fabia, 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 Skoda Fabia (320 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 164 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Caterham 7. (156 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2005 Skoda Fabia will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Caterham 7.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Caterham 7 | 2005 Skoda Fabia | |
| Make | Caterham | Skoda |
| Model | 7 | Fabia |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 128 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 156 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 203 km/hour | 204 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 478 kg | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4010 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 36 L | 45 L |
