2009 Acura RL vs. 2003 Caterham 7
To start off, 2009 Acura RL is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Caterham 7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Caterham 7 would be higher. At 3,664 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Acura RL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Acura RL (296 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 136 more horse power than 2003 Caterham 7. (160 HP @ 7500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Acura RL should accelerate faster than 2003 Caterham 7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Acura RL weights approximately 1352 kg more than 2003 Caterham 7. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Acura RL is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Caterham 7. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Acura RL will offer significantly more control. 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, 2009 Acura RL (271 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Caterham 7. (176 Nm @ 5750 RPM). This means 2009 Acura RL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Caterham 7. 2009 Acura RL has automatic transmission and 2003 Caterham 7 has manual transmission. 2003 Caterham 7 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Acura RL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Acura RL | 2003 Caterham 7 | |
| Make | Acura | Caterham |
| Model | RL | 7 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3664 cc | 1794 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 296 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 7500 RPM |
| Torque | 271 Nm | 176 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1852 kg | 500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4980 mm | 3110 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 810 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2230 mm |
