1991 Caterham Super 7 vs. 2011 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 20 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 1,600 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Caterham Super 7 (120 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 2011 Volkswagen Golf. (104 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Caterham Super 7 should accelerate faster than 2011 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 804 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, 2011 Volkswagen Golf, 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, 2011 Volkswagen Golf (250 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 107 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Caterham Super 7. (143 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2011 Volkswagen Golf 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 | 2011 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Caterham | Volkswagen |
| Model | Super 7 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1599 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 143 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Top Speed | 180 km/hour | 190 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 510 kg | 1314 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3380 mm | 4199 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 36 L | 55 L |
