1996 Caterham 7 vs. 2004 Opel Astra
To start off, 2004 Opel Astra is newer by 8 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), 2004 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Caterham 7 (138 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 2004 Opel Astra. (85 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 2004 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Opel Astra weights approximately 837 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, 2004 Opel Astra, 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 17 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Opel Astra. (139 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 1996 Caterham 7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Opel Astra. 2004 Opel Astra 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. 2004 Opel Astra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Caterham 7 | 2004 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Caterham | Opel |
| Model | 7 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2004 |
| 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 | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 156 Nm | 139 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Top Speed | 203 km/hour | 157 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 478 kg | 1315 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 36 L | 52 L |
