2003 Caterham 7 vs. 2009 Mazda CX-9
To start off, 2009 Mazda CX-9 is newer by 6 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 3,726 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Mazda CX-9 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda CX-9 (273 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 113 more horse power than 2003 Caterham 7. (160 HP @ 7500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda CX-9 should accelerate faster than 2003 Caterham 7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda CX-9 weights approximately 829 kg more than 2003 Caterham 7. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2009 Mazda CX-9, 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, 2009 Mazda CX-9 (366 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 190 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Caterham 7. (176 Nm @ 5750 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda CX-9 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Caterham 7. 2009 Mazda CX-9 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. 2009 Mazda CX-9 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Caterham 7 | 2009 Mazda CX-9 | |
Make | Caterham | Mazda |
Model | 7 | CX-9 |
Year Released | 2003 | 2009 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1794 cc | 3726 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 160 HP | 273 HP |
Engine RPM | 7500 RPM | 6250 RPM |
Torque | 176 Nm | 366 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5750 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 7 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 500 kg | 1329 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 5080 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1940 mm |
Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1730 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2880 mm |