2004 Caterham 7 vs. 1997 Acura RL
To start off, 2004 Caterham 7 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Acura RL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Acura RL would be higher. At 3,472 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Acura RL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Caterham 7 (251 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 1997 Acura RL. (205 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 1997 Acura RL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Acura RL weights approximately 1205 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, 1997 Acura RL, 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, 1997 Acura RL (304 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Caterham 7. (258 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Acura RL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Caterham 7. 1997 Acura RL 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. 1997 Acura RL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Caterham 7 | 1997 Acura RL | |
| Make | Caterham | Acura |
| Model | 7 | RL |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 3472 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 251 HP | 205 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 258 Nm | 304 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 470 kg | 1675 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 5000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2920 mm |
