1991 Caterham Super 7 vs. 1978 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1991 Caterham Super 7 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,599 cc (4 cylinders), 1991 Caterham Super 7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Caterham Super 7 (120 HP) has 71 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. (49 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Caterham Super 7 should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 320 kg more than 1991 Caterham Super 7.
Because 1991 Caterham Super 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 1991 Caterham Super 7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 Volkswagen Golf, 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, 1991 Caterham Super 7 (143 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 62 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. (81 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1991 Caterham Super 7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Caterham Super 7 | 1978 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Caterham | Volkswagen |
| Model | Super 7 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1991 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1599 cc | 1471 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 49 HP |
| Torque | 143 Nm | 81 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.6 mm | 80 mm |
| Top Speed | 180 km/hour | 138 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 510 kg | 830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3380 mm | 3730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 36 L | 45 L |
