1996 Caterham 7 vs. 2008 Fiat Punto
To start off, 2008 Fiat Punto 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 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Caterham 7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Caterham 7 (138 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 2008 Fiat Punto. (79 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 2008 Fiat Punto. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Fiat Punto weights approximately 457 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, 2008 Fiat Punto, 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 41 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Fiat Punto. (115 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 Caterham 7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Fiat Punto. 2008 Fiat Punto 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 Fiat Punto will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Caterham 7 | 2008 Fiat Punto | |
| Make | Caterham | Fiat |
| Model | 7 | Punto |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1242 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 156 Nm | 115 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Top Speed | 203 km/hour | 165 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 478 kg | 935 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 3550 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 36 L | 47 L |
