2000 Caterham 7 vs. 2009 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 9 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 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Caterham 7 (170 HP @ 10750 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (146 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2000 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 685 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, 2009 Mazda 3, 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, 2009 Mazda 3 (135 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Caterham 7. (125 Nm @ 8250 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Caterham 7.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Caterham 7 | 2009 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Caterham | Mazda |
| Model | 7 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2000 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1137 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 146 HP |
| Engine RPM | 10750 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 125 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 8250 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 440 kg | 1125 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1010 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2650 mm |
