1996 Caterham 7 vs. 1991 Opel Calibra
To start off, 1996 Caterham 7 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Opel Calibra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Opel Calibra would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1991 Opel Calibra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Opel Calibra (201 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 1996 Caterham 7. (138 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1991 Opel Calibra should accelerate faster than 1996 Caterham 7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Opel Calibra weights approximately 945 kg more than 1996 Caterham 7. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1991 Opel Calibra is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Caterham 7. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 Opel Calibra 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, 1991 Opel Calibra (280 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 124 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Caterham 7. (156 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1991 Opel Calibra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Caterham 7.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Caterham 7 | 1991 Opel Calibra | |
| Make | Caterham | Opel |
| Model | 7 | Calibra |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1991 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 156 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 203 km/hour | 241 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 478 kg | 1423 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 36 L | 40 L |
