1996 Caterham 7 vs. 2008 Suzuki Jimny
To start off, 2008 Suzuki Jimny 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 Suzuki Jimny. (79 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 2008 Suzuki Jimny. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Suzuki Jimny weights approximately 560 kg more than 1996 Caterham 7.
Because 2008 Suzuki Jimny 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 Suzuki Jimny 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, 1996 Caterham 7 (156 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 52 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Suzuki Jimny. (104 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1996 Caterham 7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Suzuki Jimny.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Caterham 7 | 2008 Suzuki Jimny | |
| Make | Caterham | Suzuki |
| Model | 7 | Jimny |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1298 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 156 Nm | 104 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 203 km/hour | 140 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 478 kg | 1038 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 3630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1610 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2260 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 36 L | 40 L |
