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 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Caterham 7 (138 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 2006 Volkswagen Jetta. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 2006 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 798 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, 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 (250 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 94 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 | 1896 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 104 HP |
Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 156 Nm | 250 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 1900 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 19.0:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 478 kg | 1276 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 |