2003 Caterham 7 vs. 1996 Opel Astra
To start off, 2003 Caterham 7 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Opel Astra would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Caterham 7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Caterham 7 (200 HP @ 7500 RPM) has 141 more horse power than 1996 Opel Astra. (59 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 1996 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Opel Astra weights approximately 515 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, 1996 Opel Astra, 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 (210 Nm @ 5750 RPM) has 107 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Opel Astra. (103 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2003 Caterham 7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Caterham 7 | 1996 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Caterham | Opel |
| Model | 7 | Astra |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1388 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 103 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5750 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.1 mm | 77.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89.3 mm | 73.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 490 kg | 1005 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2610 mm |
