2003 Caterham 7 vs. 1999 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2003 Caterham 7 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Volkswagen Passat 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 @ 7500 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1999 Volkswagen Passat. (100 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 1999 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 775 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, 1999 Volkswagen Passat, 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 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Volkswagen Passat. (141 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2003 Caterham 7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Caterham 7 | 1999 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Caterham | Volkswagen |
| Model | 7 | Passat |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1794 cc | 1595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7500 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 141 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5750 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89.3 mm | 77.4 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 | 500 kg | 1275 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2710 mm |
