1996 Caterham 7 vs. 1986 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1996 Caterham 7 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Caterham 7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Caterham 7 (138 HP) has 79 more horse power than 1986 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 1986 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 462 kg more than 1996 Caterham 7.
Because 1996 Caterham 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 1996 Caterham 7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 Volkswagen Passat, 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, 1996 Caterham 7 (156 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Volkswagen Passat. (101 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1996 Caterham 7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Caterham 7 | 1986 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Caterham | Volkswagen |
| Model | 7 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 156 Nm | 101 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 478 kg | 940 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2560 mm |
