2004 Caterham 7 vs. 2007 Kia Spectra
To start off, 2007 Kia Spectra is newer by 3 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 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 113 more horse power than 2007 Kia Spectra. (138 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 2007 Kia Spectra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Kia Spectra weights approximately 1010 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, 2007 Kia Spectra, 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 74 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Kia Spectra. (184 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2004 Caterham 7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Kia Spectra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Caterham 7 | 2007 Kia Spectra | |
| Make | Caterham | Kia |
| Model | 7 | Spectra |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1974 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 251 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 258 Nm | 184 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 470 kg | 1480 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2620 mm |
