2000 Acura RL vs. 1996 Caterham 7
To start off, 2000 Acura RL is newer by 4 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 3,472 cc (6 cylinders), 2000 Acura RL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Acura RL (205 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 1996 Caterham 7. (138 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2000 Acura RL should accelerate faster than 1996 Caterham 7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Acura RL weights approximately 1197 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, 2000 Acura RL, 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, 2000 Acura RL (304 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 148 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Caterham 7. (156 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2000 Acura RL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Caterham 7. 2000 Acura RL 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. 2000 Acura RL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Acura RL | 1996 Caterham 7 | |
| Make | Acura | Caterham |
| Model | RL | 7 |
| Year Released | 2000 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3472 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 205 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 304 Nm | 156 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.6:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1675 kg | 478 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 3110 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 810 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2920 mm | 2240 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 36 L |
