2000 Caterham 7 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 12 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Caterham 7 (170 HP @ 10750 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. (115 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2000 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 960 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, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta, 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, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta (169 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Caterham 7. (125 Nm @ 8250 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Caterham 7. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta 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. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Caterham 7 | 2012 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Caterham | Volkswagen |
| Model | 7 | Jetta |
| Year Released | 2000 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1137 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 10750 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 125 Nm | 169 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 8250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 440 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4644 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1778 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1010 mm | 1482 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2651 mm |
