1991 Caterham Super 7 vs. 1985 Vauxhall Nova
To start off, 1991 Caterham Super 7 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Vauxhall Nova. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Vauxhall Nova 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 @ 6200 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 1985 Vauxhall Nova. (44 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Caterham Super 7 should accelerate faster than 1985 Vauxhall Nova. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Vauxhall Nova weights approximately 230 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, 1985 Vauxhall Nova, 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 74 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Vauxhall Nova. (69 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 1991 Caterham Super 7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Vauxhall Nova.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Caterham Super 7 | 1985 Vauxhall Nova | |
| Make | Caterham | Vauxhall |
| Model | Super 7 | Nova |
| Year Released | 1991 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1599 cc | 993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 44 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 143 Nm | 69 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 510 kg | 740 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3380 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1550 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2350 mm |
