2004 Caterham 7 vs. 1999 Citroen Xsara
To start off, 2004 Caterham 7 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Citroen Xsara. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Citroen Xsara would be higher. At 2,261 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Caterham 7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Caterham 7 (200 HP) has 126 more horse power than 1999 Citroen Xsara. (74 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 1999 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 540 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, 1999 Citroen Xsara, 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 (224 Nm @ 5750 RPM) has 111 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Citroen Xsara. (113 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2004 Caterham 7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Citroen Xsara.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Caterham 7 | 1999 Citroen Xsara | |
| Make | Caterham | Citroen |
| Model | 7 | Xsara |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2261 cc | 1398 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 74 HP |
| Torque | 224 Nm | 113 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5750 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.6 mm | 74.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 77 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 540 kg | 1080 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3310 mm | 4170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2550 mm |
