1996 Caterham 7 vs. 2013 Lexus RX
To start off, 2013 Lexus RX is newer by 17 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, 2013 Lexus RX (266 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 128 more horse power than 1996 Caterham 7. (138 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Lexus RX should accelerate faster than 1996 Caterham 7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Lexus RX weights approximately 1492 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 2013 Lexus RX is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Caterham 7. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 Lexus RX will offer significantly more control. 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, 2013 Lexus RX (336 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 180 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Caterham 7. (156 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2013 Lexus RX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Caterham 7.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Caterham 7 | 2013 Lexus RX | |
| Make | Caterham | Lexus |
| Model | 7 | RX |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 211 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | electric |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 266 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 156 Nm | 336 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 203 km/hour | 180 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 478 kg | 1970 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1885 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1695 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2740 mm |
