1991 Caterham Super 7 vs. 2004 Volvo S80
To start off, 2004 Volvo S80 is newer by 13 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 2,401 cc (5 cylinders), 2004 Volvo S80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volvo S80 (167 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 1991 Caterham Super 7. (110 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 1991 Caterham Super 7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volvo S80 weights approximately 1107 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, 2004 Volvo S80, 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, 2004 Volvo S80 (340 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 208 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Caterham Super 7. (132 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2004 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Caterham Super 7. 2004 Volvo S80 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. 2004 Volvo S80 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Caterham Super 7 | 2004 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | Caterham | Volvo |
| Model | Super 7 | S80 |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1599 cc | 2401 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 132 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 81.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.6 mm | 93.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 510 kg | 1617 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3380 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 36 L | 70 L |
