1996 Caterham 7 vs. 2003 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 7 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 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Caterham 7 (138 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 682 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, 2003 Volkswagen Golf, 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, both vehicles can yield 156 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Caterham 7 | 2003 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Caterham | Volkswagen |
| Model | 7 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 156 Nm | 156 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Top Speed | 203 km/hour | 194 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 478 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 36 L | 55 L |
