1991 Caterham Super 7 vs. 1986 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 1991 Caterham Super 7 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Volkswagen Jetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Volkswagen Jetta 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 (110 HP) has 57 more horse power than 1986 Volkswagen Jetta. (53 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Caterham Super 7 should accelerate faster than 1986 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 365 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, 1986 Volkswagen Jetta, 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 (132 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Volkswagen Jetta. (96 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1991 Caterham Super 7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Volkswagen Jetta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Caterham Super 7 | 1986 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Caterham | Volkswagen |
| Model | Super 7 | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1991 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1599 cc | 1271 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 132 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.6 mm | 72 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 510 kg | 875 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3380 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2480 mm |
