2003 Caterham 7 vs. 1996 Mazda 626
To start off, 2003 Caterham 7 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mazda 626. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mazda 626 would be higher. At 1,996 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Mazda 626 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Caterham 7 (200 HP @ 7500 RPM) has 111 more horse power than 1996 Mazda 626. (89 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 1996 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mazda 626 weights approximately 715 kg more than 2003 Caterham 7.
Let's talk about torque, 2003 Caterham 7 (210 Nm @ 5750 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda 626. (150 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2003 Caterham 7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda 626.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Caterham 7 | 1996 Mazda 626 | |
| Make | Caterham | Mazda |
| Model | 7 | 626 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5750 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 490 kg | 1205 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2620 mm |
