2003 Caterham 7 vs. 1991 Suzuki Samurai
To start off, 2003 Caterham 7 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Suzuki Samurai. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Suzuki Samurai 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 92 more horse power than 1991 Suzuki Samurai. (68 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 1991 Suzuki Samurai. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Suzuki Samurai weights approximately 436 kg more than 2003 Caterham 7.
Because 1991 Suzuki Samurai is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Caterham 7. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 Suzuki Samurai will offer significantly more control. 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 73 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Suzuki Samurai. (103 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Caterham 7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Suzuki Samurai.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Caterham 7 | 1991 Suzuki Samurai | |
| Make | Caterham | Suzuki |
| Model | 7 | Samurai |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1991 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1794 cc | 1298 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 68 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 103 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5750 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 74 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89.3 mm | 75.5 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 500 kg | 936 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 3450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2490 mm |
