1996 Caterham 7 vs. 2005 Toyota Corolla
To start off, 2005 Toyota Corolla 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 1,770 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Toyota Corolla is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Caterham 7 (138 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 2005 Toyota Corolla. (134 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 2005 Toyota Corolla. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Toyota Corolla weights approximately 686 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 Toyota Corolla, 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 Corolla (170 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Caterham 7. (156 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2005 Toyota Corolla will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Caterham 7. 2005 Toyota Corolla 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 Corolla will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Caterham 7 | 2005 Toyota Corolla | |
| Make | Caterham | Toyota |
| Model | 7 | Corolla |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1770 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 156 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 478 kg | 1164 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2600 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 36 L | 60 L |
