2003 Caterham 7 vs. 2008 Scion tC
To start off, 2008 Scion tC is newer by 5 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 2,399 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Scion tC is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Caterham 7 (200 HP @ 7500 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 2008 Scion tC. (161 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 2008 Scion tC. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Scion tC weights approximately 840 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, 2008 Scion tC, 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, 2008 Scion tC (221 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Caterham 7. (210 Nm @ 5750 RPM). This means 2008 Scion tC will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Caterham 7.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Caterham 7 | 2008 Scion tC | |
Make | Caterham | Scion |
Model | 7 | tC |
Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2399 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 200 HP | 161 HP |
Engine RPM | 7500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 210 Nm | 221 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 490 kg | 1330 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4430 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2710 mm |