1991 Caterham Super 7 vs. 2008 Mini Cooper
To start off, 2008 Mini Cooper 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 1,599 cc (4 cylinders), 1991 Caterham Super 7 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mini Cooper weights approximately 690 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 Mini Cooper, 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 Mini Cooper (150 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Caterham Super 7. (132 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2008 Mini Cooper will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Caterham Super 7. 2008 Mini Cooper 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. 2008 Mini Cooper will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Caterham Super 7 | 2008 Mini Cooper | |
| Make | Caterham | Mini |
| Model | Super 7 | Cooper |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1599 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 132 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.6 mm | 85.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.6:1 |
| Top Speed | 171 km/hour | 200 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 510 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3380 mm | 3630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 36 L | 50 L |
