1996 Caterham 7 vs. 2006 Renault Clio
To start off, 2006 Renault Clio is newer by 10 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 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Caterham 7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Caterham 7 (138 HP) has 64 more horse power than 2006 Renault Clio. (74 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 2006 Renault Clio. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Renault Clio weights approximately 507 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, 2006 Renault Clio, 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, 1996 Caterham 7 (156 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 51 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Renault Clio. (105 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1996 Caterham 7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Renault Clio.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Caterham 7 | 2006 Renault Clio | |
| Make | Caterham | Renault |
| Model | 7 | Clio |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1149 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 74 HP |
| Torque | 156 Nm | 105 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Top Speed | 203 km/hour | 170 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 478 kg | 985 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 3780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 36 L | 50 L |
