1991 Caterham Super 7 vs. 1988 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1991 Caterham Super 7 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Volkswagen Passat 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 41 more horse power than 1988 Volkswagen Passat. (79 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Caterham Super 7 should accelerate faster than 1988 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 705 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, 1988 Volkswagen Passat, 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, 1988 Volkswagen Passat (150 Nm @ 2300 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Caterham Super 7. (143 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1988 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Caterham Super 7.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Caterham Super 7 | 1988 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Caterham | Volkswagen |
| Model | Super 7 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1991 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1599 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 143 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.6 mm | 86.4 mm |
| 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 | 1215 kg |
