2000 Caterham 7 vs. 1997 Volkswagen Quantum
To start off, 2000 Caterham 7 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen Quantum. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Quantum would be higher. At 1,982 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen Quantum is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Caterham 7 (170 HP @ 10750 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Quantum. (109 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2000 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Quantum. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen Quantum weights approximately 690 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, 1997 Volkswagen Quantum, 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, 1997 Volkswagen Quantum (173 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Caterham 7. (125 Nm @ 8250 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen Quantum will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Caterham 7. 1997 Volkswagen Quantum has automatic transmission and 2000 Caterham 7 has manual transmission. 2000 Caterham 7 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Volkswagen Quantum will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Caterham 7 | 1997 Volkswagen Quantum | |
| Make | Caterham | Volkswagen |
| Model | 7 | Quantum |
| Year Released | 2000 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1137 cc | 1982 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 10750 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 125 Nm | 173 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 8250 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 58 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 440 kg | 1130 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4620 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1010 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2560 mm |
