1991 Caterham Super 7 vs. 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 1991 Caterham Super 7 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit would be higher. At 1,715 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Caterham Super 7 (84 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. (72 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Caterham Super 7 should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit weights approximately 335 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, 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit, 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 (124 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. (122 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1991 Caterham Super 7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Compare all specifications:
1991 Caterham Super 7 | 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
Make | Caterham | Volkswagen |
Model | Super 7 | Rabbit |
Year Released | 1991 | 1981 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1599 cc | 1715 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 84 HP | 72 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 124 Nm | 122 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 79.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 77.6 mm | 86.4 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 510 kg | 845 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3380 mm | 3950 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1620 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2410 mm |