1996 Caterham 7 vs. 2006 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 10 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 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volkswagen Jetta (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1996 Caterham 7. (138 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1996 Caterham 7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 684 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, 2006 Volkswagen Jetta, 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, 2006 Volkswagen Jetta (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 124 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Caterham 7. (156 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2006 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Caterham 7.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Caterham 7 | 2006 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Caterham | Volkswagen |
| Model | 7 | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 156 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 478 kg | 1162 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 36 L | 55 L |
