2003 Caterham 7 vs. 1988 Plymouth Colt
To start off, 2003 Caterham 7 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Plymouth Colt. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Plymouth Colt 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 @ 7500 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 1988 Plymouth Colt. (133 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 1988 Plymouth Colt. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Plymouth Colt weights approximately 630 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, 1988 Plymouth Colt, 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, 1988 Plymouth Colt (191 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Caterham 7. (176 Nm @ 5750 RPM). This means 1988 Plymouth Colt will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Caterham 7.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Caterham 7 | 1988 Plymouth Colt | |
| Make | Caterham | Plymouth |
| Model | 7 | Colt |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1794 cc | 1595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 133 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 191 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 500 kg | 1130 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2400 mm |
