1995 Caterham Super 7 vs. 1988 TVR S2
To start off, 1995 Caterham Super 7 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 TVR S2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 TVR S2 would be higher. At 2,933 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 TVR S2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 TVR S2 (168 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1995 Caterham Super 7. (138 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 TVR S2 should accelerate faster than 1995 Caterham Super 7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 TVR S2 weights approximately 436 kg more than 1995 Caterham Super 7. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1988 TVR S2 (233 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 77 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 Caterham Super 7. (156 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1988 TVR S2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 Caterham Super 7.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 Caterham Super 7 | 1988 TVR S2 | |
| Make | Caterham | TVR |
| Model | Super 7 | S2 |
| Year Released | 1995 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2933 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 156 Nm | 233 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 72 mm |
| Top Speed | 185 km/hour | 209 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 554 kg | 990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3390 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1100 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2290 mm |
