2003 Caterham 7 vs. 2012 Renault Thalia
To start off, 2012 Renault Thalia is newer by 9 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 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Caterham 7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Caterham 7 (200 HP) has 126 more horse power than 2012 Renault Thalia. (74 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 2012 Renault Thalia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Renault Thalia weights approximately 510 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, 2012 Renault Thalia, 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) has 105 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Renault Thalia. (105 Nm). This means 2003 Caterham 7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Renault Thalia. 2012 Renault Thalia 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. 2012 Renault Thalia will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Caterham 7 | 2012 Renault Thalia | |
| Make | Caterham | Renault |
| Model | 7 | Thalia |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1149 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 74 HP |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 105 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 490 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4261 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1639 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1439 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2473 mm |
