2003 Caterham 7 vs. 1990 Suzuki Alto
To start off, 2003 Caterham 7 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Suzuki Alto. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Suzuki Alto 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 122 more horse power than 1990 Suzuki Alto. (38 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 1990 Suzuki Alto. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Suzuki Alto weights approximately 130 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, 1990 Suzuki Alto, 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 117 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Suzuki Alto. (59 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Caterham 7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Suzuki Alto.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Caterham 7 | 1990 Suzuki Alto | |
| Make | Caterham | Suzuki |
| Model | 7 | Alto |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1794 cc | 796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 38 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 59 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 500 kg | 630 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 3310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1410 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2180 mm |
