1996 Caterham 7 vs. 2009 Citroen C4
To start off, 2009 Citroen C4 is newer by 13 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 1,749 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Citroen C4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Caterham 7 (138 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 2009 Citroen C4. (123 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 2009 Citroen C4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Citroen C4 weights approximately 1107 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, 2009 Citroen C4, 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, 2009 Citroen C4 (170 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Caterham 7. (156 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2009 Citroen C4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Caterham 7.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Caterham 7 | 2009 Citroen C4 | |
| Make | Caterham | Citroen |
| Model | 7 | C4 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1749 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 156 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 203 km/hour | 185 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 478 kg | 1585 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 36 L | 60 L |
