1996 Caterham 7 vs. 2011 Mazda 6
To start off, 2011 Mazda 6 is newer by 15 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 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Mazda 6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mazda 6 (170 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1996 Caterham 7. (138 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda 6 should accelerate faster than 1996 Caterham 7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mazda 6 weights approximately 1006 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, 2011 Mazda 6, 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, 2011 Mazda 6 (226 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Caterham 7. (156 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2011 Mazda 6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Caterham 7.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Caterham 7 | 2011 Mazda 6 | |
Make | Caterham | Mazda |
Model | 7 | 6 |
Year Released | 1996 | 2011 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 170 HP |
Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 156 Nm | 226 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 478 kg | 1484 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4920 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1839 mm |
Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1471 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2789 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 36 L | 70 L |