1996 Caterham 7 vs. 2003 Volkswagen Sharan
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen Sharan 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 1,786 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Volkswagen Sharan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volkswagen Sharan (148 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1996 Caterham 7. (138 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen Sharan should accelerate faster than 1996 Caterham 7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volkswagen Sharan weights approximately 1196 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 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 Sharan, 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, 2003 Volkswagen Sharan (210 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 54 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Caterham 7. (156 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2003 Volkswagen Sharan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Caterham 7. 2003 Volkswagen Sharan has automatic transmission and 1996 Caterham 7 has manual transmission. 1996 Caterham 7 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Volkswagen Sharan will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Caterham 7 | 2003 Volkswagen Sharan | |
| Make | Caterham | Volkswagen |
| Model | 7 | Sharan |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1786 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 156 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 478 kg | 1674 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2850 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 36 L | 70 L |
