2000 Caterham 7 vs. 2003 Fiat Idea
To start off, 2003 Fiat Idea is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2000 Caterham 7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2000 Caterham 7 would be higher. At 1,247 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Fiat Idea is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Caterham 7 (170 HP @ 10750 RPM) has 101 more horse power than 2003 Fiat Idea. (69 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2000 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 2003 Fiat Idea. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Fiat Idea weights approximately 760 kg more than 2000 Caterham 7.
Because 2000 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 2000 Caterham 7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Fiat Idea, 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, 2003 Fiat Idea (180 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Caterham 7. (125 Nm @ 8250 RPM). This means 2003 Fiat Idea will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Caterham 7.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Caterham 7 | 2003 Fiat Idea | |
| Make | Caterham | Fiat |
| Model | 7 | Idea |
| Year Released | 2000 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1137 cc | 1247 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 69 HP |
| Engine RPM | 10750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 125 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 8250 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 69.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 58 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 212 km/hour | 159 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 440 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 3940 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1010 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2610 mm |
