2000 Caterham 7 vs. 2011 Volkswagen T5
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen T5 is newer by 11 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 2,459 cc (5 cylinders), 2011 Volkswagen T5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Volkswagen T5 (172 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 2000 Caterham 7. (170 HP @ 10750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volkswagen T5 should accelerate faster than 2000 Caterham 7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volkswagen T5 weights approximately 784 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, 2011 Volkswagen T5, 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, 2011 Volkswagen T5 (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 275 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Caterham 7. (125 Nm @ 8250 RPM). This means 2011 Volkswagen T5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Caterham 7.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Caterham 7 | 2011 Volkswagen T5 | |
| Make | Caterham | Volkswagen |
| Model | 7 | T5 |
| Year Released | 2000 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1137 cc | 2459 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 172 HP |
| Engine RPM | 10750 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 125 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 8250 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 212 km/hour | 183 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 440 kg | 1224 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1980 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1010 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 3010 mm |
