1991 Caterham Super 7 vs. 1997 Volvo S70
To start off, 1997 Volvo S70 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 2,435 cc (5 cylinders), 1997 Volvo S70 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volvo S70 (190 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 106 more horse power than 1991 Caterham Super 7. (84 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volvo S70 should accelerate faster than 1991 Caterham Super 7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volvo S70 weights approximately 870 kg more than 1991 Caterham Super 7. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 S70, 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, 1997 Volvo S70 (267 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 143 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Caterham Super 7. (124 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Volvo S70 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 | 1997 Volvo S70 | |
| Make | Caterham | Volvo |
| Model | Super 7 | S70 |
| Year Released | 1991 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1599 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 84 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 267 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.6 mm | 90 mm |
| Top Speed | 161 km/hour | 225 km/hour |
| 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 | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3380 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 36 L | 68 L |
