1991 Caterham Super 7 vs. 2001 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2001 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 10 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), 2001 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Caterham Super 7 (120 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 2001 Volkswagen Golf. (113 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Caterham Super 7 should accelerate faster than 2001 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 595 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, 2001 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, 2001 Volkswagen Golf (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Caterham Super 7. (143 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2001 Volkswagen Golf 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 | 2001 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Caterham | Volkswagen |
| Model | Super 7 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2001 |
| 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 |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 143 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| 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 | 1105 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3380 mm | 4148 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1735 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2512 mm |
