1996 Caterham 7 vs. 2007 Suzuki Forenza
To start off, 2007 Suzuki Forenza 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 Suzuki Forenza is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Caterham 7 (138 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 2007 Suzuki Forenza. (127 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 2007 Suzuki Forenza. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Suzuki Forenza weights approximately 587 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, 2007 Suzuki Forenza, 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 Suzuki Forenza (179 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Caterham 7. (156 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2007 Suzuki Forenza will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Caterham 7.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Caterham 7 | 2007 Suzuki Forenza | |
| Make | Caterham | Suzuki |
| Model | 7 | Forenza |
| 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 | 127 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 156 Nm | 179 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 478 kg | 1065 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4570 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 36 L | 55 L |
