1995 Caterham Super 7 vs. 1998 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1998 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 Caterham Super 7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 Caterham Super 7 would be higher. At 1,983 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 Caterham Super 7 (138 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1995 Caterham Super 7 should accelerate faster than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 738 kg more than 1995 Caterham Super 7.
Because 1998 Volkswagen Golf is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1995 Caterham Super 7. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Volkswagen Golf 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, 1998 Volkswagen Golf (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 Caterham Super 7. (156 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1998 Volkswagen Golf 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 | 1998 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Caterham | Volkswagen |
| Model | Super 7 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1995 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 156 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 554 kg | 1292 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3390 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1100 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 30 L | 62 L |
