2004 Caterham 7 vs. 2012 Lotus Exige
To start off, 2012 Lotus Exige is newer by 8 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 2,261 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Caterham 7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Lotus Exige (257 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 2004 Caterham 7. (200 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Lotus Exige should accelerate faster than 2004 Caterham 7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Lotus Exige weights approximately 369 kg more than 2004 Caterham 7. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2012 Lotus Exige (236 Nm @ 6000 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Caterham 7. (224 Nm @ 5750 RPM). This means 2012 Lotus Exige will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Caterham 7.
Compare all specifications:
2004 Caterham 7 | 2012 Lotus Exige | |
Make | Caterham | Lotus |
Model | 7 | Exige |
Year Released | 2004 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Middle |
Engine Size | 2261 cc | 1800 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 200 HP | 257 HP |
Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 8000 RPM |
Torque | 224 Nm | 236 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5750 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 540 kg | 909 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3310 mm | 3797 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1727 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1158 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2299 mm |