2003 Caterham 7 vs. 2008 Toyota Prius
To start off, 2008 Toyota Prius 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 1,794 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Caterham 7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Caterham 7 (160 HP @ 7500 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 2008 Toyota Prius. (110 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 2008 Toyota Prius.
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 Toyota Prius, 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 (176 Nm @ 5750 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Toyota Prius. (111 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2003 Caterham 7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Toyota Prius. 2008 Toyota Prius 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. 2008 Toyota Prius will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Caterham 7 | 2008 Toyota Prius | |
| Make | Caterham | Toyota |
| Model | 7 | Prius |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1794 cc | 1497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 110 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 111 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5750 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2710 mm |
