1991 Caterham Super 7 vs. 2009 Volvo S80
To start off, 2009 Volvo S80 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 3,191 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Volvo S80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volvo S80 (235 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 151 more horse power than 1991 Caterham Super 7. (84 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 1991 Caterham Super 7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volvo S80 weights approximately 1071 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 Volvo S80, 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 Volvo S80 (320 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 196 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Caterham Super 7. (124 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Caterham Super 7. 2009 Volvo S80 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. 2009 Volvo S80 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Caterham Super 7 | 2009 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | Caterham | Volvo |
| Model | Super 7 | S80 |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1599 cc | 3191 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 84 HP | 235 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.6 mm | 96 mm |
| Top Speed | 161 km/hour | 240 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 510 kg | 1581 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3380 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 36 L | 70 L |
