1996 Caterham 7 vs. 2008 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2008 Opel Vectra is newer by 12 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 1,909 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Opel Vectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Opel Vectra (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1996 Caterham 7. (138 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Opel Vectra should accelerate faster than 1996 Caterham 7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Opel Vectra weights approximately 1057 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, 2008 Opel Vectra, 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, 2008 Opel Vectra (315 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 159 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Caterham 7. (156 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2008 Opel Vectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Caterham 7.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Caterham 7 | 2008 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | Caterham | Opel |
| Model | 7 | Vectra |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1909 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 156 Nm | 315 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 203 km/hour | 217 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 478 kg | 1535 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 36 L | 61 L |
