2004 Caterham 7 vs. 2001 Pontiac Vibe
To start off, 2004 Caterham 7 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Pontiac Vibe. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Pontiac Vibe 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 129 more horse power than 2001 Pontiac Vibe. (122 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 2001 Pontiac Vibe. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Pontiac Vibe weights approximately 760 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, 2001 Pontiac Vibe, 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 98 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Pontiac Vibe. (160 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2004 Caterham 7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Pontiac Vibe. 2001 Pontiac Vibe 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. 2001 Pontiac Vibe will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Caterham 7 | 2001 Pontiac Vibe | |
| Make | Caterham | Pontiac |
| Model | 7 | Vibe |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 251 HP | 122 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 258 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 470 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2610 mm |
