1991 Caterham Super 7 vs. 2009 Saturn Astra
To start off, 2009 Saturn Astra is newer by 18 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 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Saturn Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Saturn Astra (136 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1991 Caterham Super 7. (120 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Saturn Astra should accelerate faster than 1991 Caterham Super 7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Saturn Astra weights approximately 770 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, 2009 Saturn 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, 1991 Caterham Super 7 (143 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Saturn Astra. (125 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1991 Caterham Super 7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Saturn Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Caterham Super 7 | 2009 Saturn Astra | |
| Make | Caterham | Saturn |
| Model | Super 7 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1599 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 136 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 143 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.2:1 |
| 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 | 1280 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3380 mm | 4340 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 36 L | 45 L |
