1997 Cadillac Catera vs. 2012 Mazda CX-7
To start off, 2012 Mazda CX-7 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Cadillac Catera. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Cadillac Catera would be higher. At 2,962 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Cadillac Catera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mazda CX-7 (244 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1997 Cadillac Catera. (200 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda CX-7 should accelerate faster than 1997 Cadillac Catera. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mazda CX-7 weights approximately 13 kg more than 1997 Cadillac Catera. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Cadillac Catera 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 1997 Cadillac Catera. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Mazda CX-7, 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-7 (349 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 89 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Cadillac Catera. (260 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2012 Mazda CX-7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Cadillac Catera.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Cadillac Catera | 2012 Mazda CX-7 | |
Make | Cadillac | Mazda |
Model | Catera | CX-7 |
Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2962 cc | 2300 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 200 HP | 244 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 260 Nm | 349 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1705 kg | 1718 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4890 mm | 4681 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1872 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1646 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2940 mm | 2751 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 69 L |