1991 Caterham Super 7 vs. 2011 Volvo XC90
To start off, 2011 Volvo XC90 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 2,400 cc (5 cylinders), 2011 Volvo XC90 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Volvo XC90 (185 HP) has 75 more horse power than 1991 Caterham Super 7. (110 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volvo XC90 should accelerate faster than 1991 Caterham Super 7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volvo XC90 weights approximately 1645 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 2011 Volvo XC90 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1991 Caterham Super 7. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Volvo XC90 will offer significantly more control. 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 Volvo XC90 (340 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 208 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Caterham Super 7. (132 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2011 Volvo XC90 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 Volvo XC90 | |
| Make | Caterham | Volvo |
| Model | Super 7 | XC90 |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Roadster | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1599 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 185 HP |
| Torque | 132 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 510 kg | 2155 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3380 mm | 4808 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1897 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1783 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 36 L | 80 L |
