2003 Caterham 7 vs. 2004 Kia Spectra
To start off, 2004 Kia Spectra is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Caterham 7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Caterham 7 would be higher. At 1,983 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Kia Spectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Caterham 7 (200 HP @ 7500 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 2004 Kia Spectra. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 2004 Kia Spectra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Kia Spectra weights approximately 792 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, 2004 Kia Spectra, 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, 2003 Caterham 7 (210 Nm) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Kia Spectra. (185 Nm). This means 2003 Caterham 7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Kia Spectra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Caterham 7 | 2004 Kia Spectra | |
| Make | Caterham | Kia |
| Model | 7 | Spectra |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 185 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.1 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89.3 mm | 93 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 490 kg | 1282 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2710 mm |
