2003 Caterham 7 vs. 1996 Chevrolet Malibu
To start off, 2003 Caterham 7 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Chevrolet Malibu would be higher. At 2,392 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Caterham 7 (160 HP @ 7500 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 885 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, 1996 Chevrolet Malibu, 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, 1996 Chevrolet Malibu (210 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Caterham 7. (176 Nm @ 5750 RPM). This means 1996 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Caterham 7. 1996 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 2003 Caterham 7 has manual transmission. 2003 Caterham 7 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Caterham 7 | 1996 Chevrolet Malibu | |
| Make | Caterham | Chevrolet |
| Model | 7 | Malibu |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1794 cc | 2392 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5750 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89.3 mm | 94 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 500 kg | 1385 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2760 mm |
