1996 Caterham 7 vs. 2009 Jaguar XK
To start off, 2009 Jaguar XK 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 4,196 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Jaguar XK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Jaguar XK (410 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 272 more horse power than 1996 Caterham 7. (138 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Jaguar XK should accelerate faster than 1996 Caterham 7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Jaguar XK weights approximately 1187 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.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 Jaguar XK (560 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 404 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Caterham 7. (156 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2009 Jaguar XK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Caterham 7. 2009 Jaguar XK 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. 2009 Jaguar XK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Caterham 7 | 2009 Jaguar XK | |
| Make | Caterham | Jaguar |
| Model | 7 | XK |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 4196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 410 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 156 Nm | 560 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.1:1 |
| Top Speed | 203 km/hour | 280 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 478 kg | 1665 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 36 L | 71 L |
