2003 Caterham 7 vs. 2010 Chevrolet Malibu
To start off, 2010 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 7 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 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2010 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Chevrolet Malibu (169 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 2003 Caterham 7. (160 HP @ 7500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster 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, 2010 Chevrolet Malibu, 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, 2010 Chevrolet Malibu (217 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Caterham 7. (176 Nm @ 5750 RPM). This means 2010 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Caterham 7. 2010 Chevrolet Malibu 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. 2010 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Caterham 7 | 2010 Chevrolet Malibu | |
| Make | Caterham | Chevrolet |
| Model | 7 | Malibu |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2010 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1794 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 169 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7500 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 217 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5750 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4872 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2852 mm |
