2000 Caterham 7 vs. 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2000 Caterham 7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2000 Caterham 7 would be higher. At 4,171 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton (330 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 160 more horse power than 2000 Caterham 7. (170 HP @ 10750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton should accelerate faster than 2000 Caterham 7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton weights approximately 1726 kg more than 2000 Caterham 7. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2000 Caterham 7. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton will offer significantly more control. 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, 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton (430 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 305 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Caterham 7. (125 Nm @ 8250 RPM). This means 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Caterham 7.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Caterham 7 | 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton | |
| Make | Caterham | Volkswagen |
| Model | 7 | Phaeton |
| Year Released | 2000 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1137 cc | 4171 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 330 HP |
| Engine RPM | 10750 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 125 Nm | 430 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 8250 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 84.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 58 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 440 kg | 2166 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 5060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1010 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2890 mm |
