1991 Caterham Super 7 vs. 2005 Holden Astra
To start off, 2005 Holden Astra is newer by 14 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 1,794 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Holden Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Holden Astra (120 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1991 Caterham Super 7. (110 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Holden Astra should accelerate faster than 1991 Caterham Super 7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Holden Astra weights approximately 640 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, 2005 Holden Astra, 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, 2005 Holden Astra (165 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Caterham Super 7. (132 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2005 Holden Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Caterham Super 7. 2005 Holden Astra 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. 2005 Holden Astra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Caterham Super 7 | 2005 Holden Astra | |
| Make | Caterham | Holden |
| Model | Super 7 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1599 cc | 1794 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 132 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 510 kg | 1150 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3380 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2610 mm |
