1992 Caterham Super 7 vs. 2007 Volvo C30
To start off, 2007 Volvo C30 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1992 Caterham Super 7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1992 Caterham Super 7 would be higher. Both 1992 Caterham Super 7 and 2007 Volvo C30 are equipped with a 1,998 cc engine. In terms of performance, 1992 Caterham Super 7 (251 HP @ 7750 RPM) has 117 more horse power than 2007 Volvo C30. (134 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1992 Caterham Super 7 should accelerate faster than 2007 Volvo C30. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Volvo C30 weights approximately 881 kg more than 1992 Caterham Super 7.
Because 1992 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 1992 Caterham Super 7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 Volvo C30, 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, 2007 Volvo C30 (320 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1992 Caterham Super 7. (250 Nm @ 6250 RPM). This means 2007 Volvo C30 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1992 Caterham Super 7.
Compare all specifications:
| 1992 Caterham Super 7 | 2007 Volvo C30 | |
| Make | Caterham | Volvo |
| Model | Super 7 | C30 |
| Year Released | 1992 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 251 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 6250 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 85.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 18.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 540 kg | 1421 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3390 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1130 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2650 mm |
