1996 Caterham 7 vs. 2007 Subaru Impreza
To start off, 2007 Subaru Impreza 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 1,992 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Subaru Impreza is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Subaru Impreza (158 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1996 Caterham 7. (138 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Subaru Impreza should accelerate faster than 1996 Caterham 7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Subaru Impreza weights approximately 822 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 2007 Subaru Impreza is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Caterham 7. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 Subaru Impreza will offer significantly more control. 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 Subaru Impreza (186 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Caterham 7. (156 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2007 Subaru Impreza will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Caterham 7. 2007 Subaru Impreza 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. 2007 Subaru Impreza will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Caterham 7 | 2007 Subaru Impreza | |
| Make | Caterham | Subaru |
| Model | 7 | Impreza |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1992 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 156 Nm | 186 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 203 km/hour | 191 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 478 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2530 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 36 L | 60 L |
