1996 Caterham 7 vs. 2011 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 15 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 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Caterham 7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Caterham 7 (138 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 2011 Volkswagen Polo. (74 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 2011 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volkswagen Polo weights approximately 672 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, 2011 Volkswagen Polo, 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, 2011 Volkswagen Polo (180 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Caterham 7. (156 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2011 Volkswagen Polo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Caterham 7.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Caterham 7 | 2011 Volkswagen Polo | |
Make | Caterham | Volkswagen |
Model | 7 | Polo |
Year Released | 1996 | 2011 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1200 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 74 HP |
Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Torque | 156 Nm | 180 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Top Speed | 203 km/hour | 172 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 478 kg | 1150 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 3970 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1682 mm |
Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1462 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2470 mm |