2004 Caterham 7 vs. 1996 TVR Chimaera
To start off, 2004 Caterham 7 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 TVR Chimaera. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 TVR Chimaera would be higher. At 3,946 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 TVR Chimaera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Caterham 7 (251 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1996 TVR Chimaera. (225 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 1996 TVR Chimaera. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 TVR Chimaera weights approximately 555 kg more than 2004 Caterham 7.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1996 TVR Chimaera (373 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 115 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Caterham 7. (258 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 TVR Chimaera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Caterham 7.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Caterham 7 | 1996 TVR Chimaera | |
| Make | Caterham | TVR |
| Model | 7 | Chimaera |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 3946 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 251 HP | 225 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 258 Nm | 373 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 470 kg | 1025 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1220 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2290 mm |
