1992 Caterham Super 7 vs. 2008 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 16 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. At 2,771 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1992 Caterham Super 7 (251 HP @ 7750 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. (190 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1992 Caterham Super 7 should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 810 kg more than 1992 Caterham Super 7.
Because 2008 Volkswagen Passat is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1992 Caterham Super 7. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Passat 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, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (280 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1992 Caterham Super 7. (250 Nm @ 6250 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Passat 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 | 2008 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Caterham | Volkswagen |
| Model | Super 7 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1992 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2771 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 251 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7750 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 6250 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 10.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 235 km/hour | 238 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 540 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3390 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1130 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2710 mm |
