2003 Caterham 7 vs. 1971 Volkswagen 1600
To start off, 2003 Caterham 7 is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Volkswagen 1600. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Volkswagen 1600 would be higher. At 1,794 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Caterham 7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Caterham 7 (160 HP) has 107 more horse power than 1971 Volkswagen 1600. (53 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 1971 Volkswagen 1600. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Volkswagen 1600 weights approximately 475 kg more than 2003 Caterham 7.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2003 Caterham 7 (176 Nm @ 5750 RPM) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Volkswagen 1600. (110 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2003 Caterham 7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Volkswagen 1600.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Caterham 7 | 1971 Volkswagen 1600 | |
| Make | Caterham | Volkswagen |
| Model | 7 | 1600 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1794 cc | 1584 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5750 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 500 kg | 975 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2520 mm |
