2003 Caterham 7 vs. 1995 Volvo 850
To start off, 2003 Caterham 7 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 Volvo 850. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 Volvo 850 would be higher. At 1,982 cc (5 cylinders), 1995 Volvo 850 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Caterham 7 (160 HP @ 7500 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1995 Volvo 850. (124 HP @ 6100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 1995 Volvo 850. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 Volvo 850 weights approximately 890 kg more than 2003 Caterham 7.
Because 2003 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 2003 Caterham 7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1995 Volvo 850, 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, 2003 Caterham 7 (176 Nm @ 5750 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 Volvo 850. (170 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2003 Caterham 7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 Volvo 850.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Caterham 7 | 1995 Volvo 850 | |
| Make | Caterham | Volvo |
| Model | 7 | 850 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1995 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1794 cc | 1982 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 124 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7500 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5750 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 500 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2670 mm |
