1996 Caterham 7 vs. 2008 Chevrolet Equinox
To start off, 2008 Chevrolet Equinox is newer by 12 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 3,425 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Chevrolet Equinox is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Chevrolet Equinox (186 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1996 Caterham 7. (138 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Chevrolet Equinox should accelerate faster than 1996 Caterham 7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Chevrolet Equinox weights approximately 783 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 2008 Chevrolet Equinox 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, 2008 Chevrolet Equinox 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, 2008 Chevrolet Equinox (285 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 129 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Caterham 7. (156 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2008 Chevrolet Equinox will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Caterham 7. 2008 Chevrolet Equinox 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. 2008 Chevrolet Equinox will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Caterham 7 | 2008 Chevrolet Equinox | |
| Make | Caterham | Chevrolet |
| Model | 7 | Equinox |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 3425 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 186 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 156 Nm | 285 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 478 kg | 1261 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1710 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 36 L | 76 L |
