2003 Caterham 7 vs. 1985 Nissan Sunny
To start off, 2003 Caterham 7 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Nissan Sunny. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Nissan Sunny would be higher. At 1,794 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Caterham 7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Caterham 7 (160 HP) has 86 more horse power than 1985 Nissan Sunny. (74 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 1985 Nissan Sunny. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Nissan Sunny weights approximately 360 kg more than 2003 Caterham 7.
Because 2003 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 2003 Caterham 7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 Nissan Sunny, 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 Caterham 7 (176 Nm @ 5750 RPM) has 54 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Nissan Sunny. (122 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2003 Caterham 7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Nissan Sunny.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Caterham 7 | 1985 Nissan Sunny | |
| Make | Caterham | Nissan |
| Model | 7 | Sunny |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1794 cc | 1487 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 74 HP |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 122 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5750 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 500 kg | 860 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4140 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2410 mm |
