1991 Caterham Super 7 vs. 2008 Citroen Xsara
To start off, 2008 Citroen Xsara is newer by 17 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 1,749 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Citroen Xsara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Caterham Super 7 (120 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 2008 Citroen Xsara. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Caterham Super 7 should accelerate faster than 2008 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 810 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, 2008 Citroen Xsara, 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, 2008 Citroen Xsara (160 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Caterham Super 7. (143 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2008 Citroen Xsara 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 | 2008 Citroen Xsara | |
| Make | Caterham | Citroen |
| Model | Super 7 | Xsara |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1599 cc | 1749 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 143 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.6 mm | 81.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 180 km/hour | 190 km/hour |
| 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 | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3380 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1640 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 36 L | 55 L |
