2003 Caterham 7 vs. 1999 Acura RL
To start off, 2003 Caterham 7 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Acura RL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Acura RL would be higher. At 3,472 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 Acura RL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Acura RL (205 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 2003 Caterham 7. (160 HP @ 7500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Acura RL should accelerate faster than 2003 Caterham 7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Acura RL weights approximately 1175 kg more than 2003 Caterham 7. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1999 Acura RL, 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, 1999 Acura RL (304 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 128 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Caterham 7. (176 Nm @ 5750 RPM). This means 1999 Acura RL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Caterham 7. 1999 Acura RL 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. 1999 Acura RL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Caterham 7 | 1999 Acura RL | |
Make | Caterham | Acura |
Model | 7 | RL |
Year Released | 2003 | 1999 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1794 cc | 3472 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 160 HP | 205 HP |
Engine RPM | 7500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 176 Nm | 304 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5750 RPM | 2800 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 90 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 89.3 mm | 91 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 500 kg | 1675 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 5000 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2920 mm |