1996 Caterham 7 vs. 2009 Nissan Maxima
To start off, 2009 Nissan Maxima 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 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Nissan Maxima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Nissan Maxima (291 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 153 more horse power than 1996 Caterham 7. (138 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Nissan Maxima should accelerate faster than 1996 Caterham 7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Nissan Maxima weights approximately 1139 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.
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 Nissan Maxima, 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 Nissan Maxima (354 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 198 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Caterham 7. (156 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2009 Nissan Maxima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Caterham 7. 2009 Nissan Maxima 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 Nissan Maxima will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Caterham 7 | 2009 Nissan Maxima | |
Make | Caterham | Nissan |
Model | 7 | Maxima |
Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1588 cc | 3500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 291 HP |
Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6400 RPM |
Torque | 156 Nm | 354 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 478 kg | 1617 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4841 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1859 mm |
Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1468 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2776 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 36 L | 76 L |