1991 Caterham Super 7 vs. 1997 Volvo S40
To start off, 1997 Volvo S40 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Caterham Super 7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Caterham Super 7 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 16 more horse power than 1997 Volvo S40. (104 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Caterham Super 7 should accelerate faster than 1997 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volvo S40 weights approximately 715 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, 1997 Volvo S40, 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, both vehicles can yield 143 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Caterham Super 7 | 1997 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Caterham | Volvo |
| Model | Super 7 | S40 |
| Year Released | 1991 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1599 cc | 1587 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 143 Nm | 143 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| 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 | 1225 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3380 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2560 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 36 L | 68 L |
