2004 Caterham 7 vs. 2006 Lexus IS
To start off, 2006 Lexus IS is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Caterham 7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Caterham 7 would be higher. At 2,231 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Caterham 7 (251 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 2006 Lexus IS. (176 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 2006 Lexus IS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Lexus IS weights approximately 1260 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, 2006 Lexus IS (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 142 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Caterham 7. (258 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Caterham 7.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Caterham 7 | 2006 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Caterham | Lexus |
| Model | 7 | IS |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 2231 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 251 HP | 176 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 258 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Top Speed | 241 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 470 kg | 1730 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2740 mm |
