1996 Caterham 7 vs. 2009 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2009 Mazda RX-8 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 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Caterham 7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 94 more horse power than 1996 Caterham 7. (138 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1996 Caterham 7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 647 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 Mazda RX-8 (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Caterham 7. (156 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Caterham 7.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Caterham 7 | 2009 Mazda RX-8 | |
Make | Caterham | Mazda |
Model | 7 | RX-8 |
Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1308 cc |
Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 232 HP |
Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 8500 RPM |
Torque | 156 Nm | 216 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 478 kg | 1125 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4470 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1780 mm |
Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1350 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2710 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 36 L | 64 L |