1996 Caterham 7 vs. 2005 Toyota Avensis
To start off, 2005 Toyota Avensis 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 2,362 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Toyota Avensis is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Toyota Avensis (154 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1996 Caterham 7. (138 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Toyota Avensis should accelerate faster than 1996 Caterham 7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Toyota Avensis weights approximately 884 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 Toyota Avensis, 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 Toyota Avensis (230 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Caterham 7. (156 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2005 Toyota Avensis will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Caterham 7. 2005 Toyota Avensis 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. 2005 Toyota Avensis will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Caterham 7 | 2005 Toyota Avensis | |
| Make | Caterham | Toyota |
| Model | 7 | Avensis |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2362 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 154 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 156 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 203 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 478 kg | 1362 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1530 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 36 L | 60 L |
