2004 Caterham 7 vs. 1996 Chevrolet Beretta
To start off, 2004 Caterham 7 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Chevrolet Beretta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Chevrolet Beretta 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 162 more horse power than 1996 Chevrolet Beretta. (89 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 1996 Chevrolet Beretta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Chevrolet Beretta weights approximately 817 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, 1996 Chevrolet Beretta, 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 112 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Chevrolet Beretta. (146 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2004 Caterham 7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Chevrolet Beretta. 1996 Chevrolet Beretta has automatic transmission and 2004 Caterham 7 has manual transmission. 2004 Caterham 7 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Chevrolet Beretta will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Caterham 7 | 1996 Chevrolet Beretta | |
| Make | Caterham | Chevrolet |
| Model | 7 | Beretta |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 251 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 258 Nm | 146 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 470 kg | 1287 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2740 mm |
