2003 Caterham 7 vs. 1999 Suzuki Grand Vitara
To start off, 2003 Caterham 7 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Suzuki Grand Vitara. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Suzuki Grand Vitara would be higher. At 2,493 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 Suzuki Grand Vitara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Caterham 7 (160 HP @ 7500 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1999 Suzuki Grand Vitara. (141 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 1999 Suzuki Grand Vitara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Suzuki Grand Vitara weights approximately 905 kg more than 2003 Caterham 7.
Because 1999 Suzuki Grand Vitara 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, 1999 Suzuki Grand Vitara 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, 1999 Suzuki Grand Vitara (212 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Caterham 7. (176 Nm @ 5750 RPM). This means 1999 Suzuki Grand Vitara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Caterham 7.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Caterham 7 | 1999 Suzuki Grand Vitara | |
| Make | Caterham | Suzuki |
| Model | 7 | Grand Vitara |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1794 cc | 2493 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7500 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 212 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5750 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89.3 mm | 75 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 500 kg | 1405 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2490 mm |
