1996 Caterham 7 vs. 2007 Renault Megane
To start off, 2007 Renault Megane is newer by 11 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Renault Megane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Renault Megane (221 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 83 more horse power than 1996 Caterham 7. (138 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Renault Megane should accelerate faster than 1996 Caterham 7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Renault Megane weights approximately 952 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, 2007 Renault Megane, 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, 2007 Renault Megane (300 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 144 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Caterham 7. (156 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2007 Renault Megane will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Caterham 7.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Caterham 7 | 2007 Renault Megane | |
| Make | Caterham | Renault |
| Model | 7 | Megane |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 221 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 156 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 203 km/hour | 236 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 478 kg | 1430 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 36 L | 60 L |
