2000 Caterham 7 vs. 1996 Volvo 850
To start off, 2000 Caterham 7 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volvo 850. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volvo 850 would be higher. At 1,984 cc (5 cylinders), 1996 Volvo 850 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Caterham 7 (230 HP @ 8600 RPM) has 106 more horse power than 1996 Volvo 850. (124 HP @ 6100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2000 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo 850. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Volvo 850 weights approximately 930 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, 1996 Volvo 850, 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 (210 Nm @ 7200 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo 850. (170 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2000 Caterham 7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo 850.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Caterham 7 | 1996 Volvo 850 | |
| Make | Caterham | Volvo |
| Model | 7 | 850 |
| Year Released | 2000 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1795 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 230 HP | 124 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8600 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 7200 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 460 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2670 mm |
