2004 Caterham 7 vs. 2011 Mazda 5
To start off, 2011 Mazda 5 is newer by 7 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 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Mazda 5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Caterham 7 (251 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 94 more horse power than 2011 Mazda 5. (157 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 2011 Mazda 5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mazda 5 weights approximately 1098 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, 2011 Mazda 5, 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 37 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Mazda 5. (221 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Caterham 7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Mazda 5. 2011 Mazda 5 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. 2011 Mazda 5 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Caterham 7 | 2011 Mazda 5 | |
| Make | Caterham | Mazda |
| Model | 7 | 5 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 251 HP | 157 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 258 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 470 kg | 1568 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4585 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1615 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2751 mm |
