2003 Caterham 7 vs. 2005 Citroen Xsara
To start off, 2005 Citroen Xsara is newer by 2 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 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Citroen Xsara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Caterham 7 (200 HP) has 66 more horse power than 2005 Citroen Xsara. (134 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 2005 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 758 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, 2005 Citroen Xsara, 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 @ 5750 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Citroen Xsara. (183 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 2003 Caterham 7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Citroen Xsara. 2005 Citroen Xsara 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. 2005 Citroen Xsara will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Caterham 7 | 2005 Citroen Xsara | |
| Make | Caterham | Citroen |
| Model | 7 | Xsara |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 134 HP |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5750 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.1 mm | 85.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89.3 mm | 88 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 490 kg | 1248 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4190 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2610 mm |
