1996 Caterham 7 vs. 2000 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2000 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Caterham 7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Caterham 7 would be higher. At 2,801 cc (6 cylinders), 2000 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Volkswagen Passat (160 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1996 Caterham 7. (138 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2000 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1996 Caterham 7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 831 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 2000 Volkswagen Passat 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, 2000 Volkswagen Passat 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, 2000 Volkswagen Passat (278 Nm) has 122 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Caterham 7. (156 Nm). This means 2000 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Caterham 7.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Caterham 7 | 2000 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Caterham | Volkswagen |
| Model | 7 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2000 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2801 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 156 Nm | 278 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.6:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 478 kg | 1309 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2710 mm |
