1996 Caterham 7 vs. 2012 Mazda CX-9
To start off, 2012 Mazda CX-9 is newer by 16 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 3,700 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Mazda CX-9 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mazda CX-9 (273 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 135 more horse power than 1996 Caterham 7. (138 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda CX-9 should accelerate faster than 1996 Caterham 7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mazda CX-9 weights approximately 1485 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, 2012 Mazda CX-9, 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, 2012 Mazda CX-9 (366 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 210 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Caterham 7. (156 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2012 Mazda CX-9 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Caterham 7. 2012 Mazda CX-9 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. 2012 Mazda CX-9 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Caterham 7 | 2012 Mazda CX-9 | |
Make | Caterham | Mazda |
Model | 7 | CX-9 |
Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1588 cc | 3700 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 273 HP |
Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6250 RPM |
Torque | 156 Nm | 366 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 7 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 478 kg | 1963 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 5085 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1935 mm |
Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1727 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2875 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 36 L | 76 L |