2004 Caterham 7 vs. 2008 Rover 45
To start off, 2008 Rover 45 is newer by 4 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. Both 2004 Caterham 7 and 2008 Rover 45 are equipped with a 1,997 cc engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Caterham 7 (251 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 103 more horse power than 2008 Rover 45. (148 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 2008 Rover 45. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Rover 45 weights approximately 870 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, 2008 Rover 45, 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 73 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Rover 45. (185 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Caterham 7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Rover 45. 2008 Rover 45 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. 2008 Rover 45 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Caterham 7 | 2008 Rover 45 | |
| Make | Caterham | Rover |
| Model | 7 | 45 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 251 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 258 Nm | 185 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Top Speed | 241 km/hour | 203 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 470 kg | 1340 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2630 mm |
