2000 Caterham 7 vs. 1988 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2000 Caterham 7 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Opel Vectra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Opel Vectra would be higher. At 1,699 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Opel Vectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Caterham 7 (170 HP @ 10750 RPM) has 114 more horse power than 1988 Opel Vectra. (56 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2000 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 1988 Opel Vectra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Opel Vectra weights approximately 642 kg more than 2000 Caterham 7.
Because 2000 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 2000 Caterham 7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 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, 2000 Caterham 7 (125 Nm @ 8250 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Opel Vectra. (104 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2000 Caterham 7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Opel Vectra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Caterham 7 | 1988 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | Caterham | Opel |
| Model | 7 | Vectra |
| Year Released | 2000 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1137 cc | 1699 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 56 HP |
| Engine RPM | 10750 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 125 Nm | 104 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 8250 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 58 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 23.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 212 km/hour | 151 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 440 kg | 1082 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1010 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2600 mm |
