2004 Caterham 7 vs. 2007 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2007 Mazda RX-8 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 19 more horse power than 2007 Mazda RX-8. (232 HP @ 8500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 2007 Mazda RX-8.
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, 2004 Caterham 7 (258 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Mazda RX-8. (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2004 Caterham 7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Caterham 7 | 2007 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Caterham | Mazda |
| Model | 7 | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 251 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8000 RPM | 8500 RPM |
| Torque | 258 Nm | 216 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2710 mm |
