2004 Caterham 7 vs. 2012 Nissan NV

To start off, 2012 Nissan NV 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 5,600 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Nissan NV is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Nissan NV (317 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 2004 Caterham 7. (251 HP @ 8000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Nissan NV should accelerate faster than 2004 Caterham 7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Nissan NV weights approximately 2238 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 Nissan NV (521 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 263 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Caterham 7. (258 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Nissan NV will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Caterham 7. 2012 Nissan NV 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. 2012 Nissan NV will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2004 Caterham 7 2012 Nissan NV
Make Caterham Nissan
Model 7 NV
Year Released 2004 2012
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1997 cc 5600 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 8 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 251 HP 317 HP
Engine RPM 8000 RPM 5200 RPM
Torque 258 Nm 521 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 3400 RPM
Drive Type Rear Rear
Transmission Type Manual 5-speed automatic
Vehicle Weight 470 kg 2708 kg
Vehicle Length 3110 mm 6111 mm
Vehicle Width 1580 mm 2029 mm
Vehicle Height 810 mm 2156 mm
Wheelbase Size 2230 mm 3711 mm