1991 Caterham Super 7 vs. 1998 Volvo S40
To start off, 1998 Volvo S40 is newer by 7 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 1,948 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Volvo S40 (200 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 90 more horse power than 1991 Caterham Super 7. (110 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1991 Caterham Super 7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Volvo S40 weights approximately 1143 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, 1998 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, 1998 Volvo S40 (299 Nm) has 167 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Caterham Super 7. (132 Nm). This means 1998 Volvo S40 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 | 1998 Volvo S40 | |
Make | Caterham | Volvo |
Model | Super 7 | S40 |
Year Released | 1991 | 1998 |
Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1599 cc | 1948 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 110 HP | 200 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 132 Nm | 299 Nm |
Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 83.1 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 77.6 mm | 89.9 mm |
Top Speed | 171 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 510 kg | 1653 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3380 mm | 4490 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2570 mm |