2004 Caterham 7 vs. 1994 Mercury Capri
To start off, 2004 Caterham 7 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1994 Mercury Capri. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1994 Mercury Capri would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Caterham 7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Caterham 7 (251 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 151 more horse power than 1994 Mercury Capri. (100 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 1994 Mercury Capri. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1994 Mercury Capri weights approximately 610 kg more than 2004 Caterham 7.
Because 2004 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 2004 Caterham 7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1994 Mercury Capri, 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, 2004 Caterham 7 (258 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 128 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 Mercury Capri. (130 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2004 Caterham 7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1994 Mercury Capri.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Caterham 7 | 1994 Mercury Capri | |
| Make | Caterham | Mercury |
| Model | 7 | Capri |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1994 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 251 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8000 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 258 Nm | 130 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 470 kg | 1080 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2410 mm |
