1991 Caterham Super 7 vs. 2009 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Jetta 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 1,966 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen Jetta (140 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1991 Caterham Super 7. (84 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1991 Caterham Super 7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 737 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 Volkswagen Jetta, 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, 2009 Volkswagen Jetta (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 196 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Caterham Super 7. (124 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen Jetta 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 | 2009 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Caterham | Volkswagen |
| Model | Super 7 | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1599 cc | 1966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 84 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.6 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 510 kg | 1247 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3380 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 36 L | 55 L |
