2004 Caterham 7 vs. 1996 Mazda MX-3
To start off, 2004 Caterham 7 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mazda MX-3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mazda MX-3 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 145 more horse power than 1996 Mazda MX-3. (106 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 1996 Mazda MX-3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mazda MX-3 weights approximately 589 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 Mazda MX-3, 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 124 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda MX-3. (134 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2004 Caterham 7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda MX-3.
Compare all specifications:
2004 Caterham 7 | 1996 Mazda MX-3 | |
Make | Caterham | Mazda |
Model | 7 | MX-3 |
Year Released | 2004 | 1996 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1596 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 251 HP | 106 HP |
Engine RPM | 8000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
Torque | 258 Nm | 134 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 470 kg | 1059 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4230 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1700 mm |
Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1320 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2460 mm |