2000 Caterham 7 vs. 2006 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2006 Opel Vectra is newer by 6 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 2,792 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Opel Vectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Opel Vectra (252 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 2000 Caterham 7. (230 HP @ 8600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Opel Vectra should accelerate faster than 2000 Caterham 7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Opel Vectra weights approximately 1120 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 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, 2006 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, 2006 Opel Vectra (355 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 145 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Caterham 7. (210 Nm @ 7200 RPM). This means 2006 Opel Vectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Caterham 7.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Caterham 7 | 2006 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | Caterham | Opel |
| Model | 7 | Vectra |
| Year Released | 2000 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1795 cc | 2792 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 230 HP | 252 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 355 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 7200 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 235 km/hour | 255 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 460 kg | 1580 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4620 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2710 mm |
