1996 Caterham 7 vs. 2009 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 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 1,598 cc, 2009 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Caterham 7 (138 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 714 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 Mazda 3, 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 11 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 Caterham 7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Caterham 7 | 2009 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Caterham | Mazda |
| Model | 7 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1598 cc |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 156 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 478 kg | 1192 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 36 L | 55 L |
