1996 Caterham 7 vs. 2006 Volkswagen Multivan
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen Multivan 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 1,982 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Volkswagen Multivan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Caterham 7 (138 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 2006 Volkswagen Multivan. (113 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 2006 Volkswagen Multivan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volkswagen Multivan weights approximately 1706 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 Multivan, 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 Multivan (170 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Caterham 7. (156 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2006 Volkswagen Multivan 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 Multivan | |
| Make | Caterham | Volkswagen |
| Model | 7 | Multivan |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1982 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 156 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 203 km/hour | 163 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 478 kg | 2184 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1950 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 3010 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 36 L | 80 L |
