1992 Caterham Super 7 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 20 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 1,396 cc (4 cylinders), 1992 Caterham Super 7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1992 Caterham Super 7 (110 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Polo. (89 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1992 Caterham Super 7 should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Polo weights approximately 611 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, 2012 Volkswagen Polo, 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, 2012 Volkswagen Polo (230 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 1992 Caterham Super 7. (130 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Polo 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 | 2012 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Caterham | Volkswagen |
| Model | Super 7 | Polo |
| Year Released | 1992 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1396 cc | 1200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 130 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Top Speed | 151 km/hour | 180 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 546 kg | 1157 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3390 mm | 3970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1682 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1100 mm | 1462 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2470 mm |
