1991 Caterham Super 7 vs. 1999 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1999 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 8 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 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Volkswagen Golf (113 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 1991 Caterham Super 7. (84 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1991 Caterham Super 7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 753 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, 1999 Volkswagen Golf, 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, 1999 Volkswagen Golf (172 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Caterham Super 7. (124 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1999 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Caterham Super 7. 1999 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 1991 Caterham Super 7 has manual transmission. 1991 Caterham Super 7 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Caterham Super 7 | 1999 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Caterham | Volkswagen |
| Model | Super 7 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1991 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1599 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 84 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.6 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Top Speed | 161 km/hour | 192 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 510 kg | 1263 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3380 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 36 L | 55 L |
