2003 Caterham 7 vs. 2006 Volkswagen Sharan
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen Sharan is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Caterham 7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Caterham 7 would be higher. At 2,792 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Volkswagen Sharan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volkswagen Sharan (201 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 2003 Caterham 7. (200 HP @ 7500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen Sharan should accelerate faster than 2003 Caterham 7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volkswagen Sharan weights approximately 1262 kg more than 2003 Caterham 7. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2006 Volkswagen Sharan, 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, 2006 Volkswagen Sharan (265 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Caterham 7. (210 Nm @ 5750 RPM). This means 2006 Volkswagen Sharan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Caterham 7.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Caterham 7 | 2006 Volkswagen Sharan | |
| Make | Caterham | Volkswagen |
| Model | 7 | Sharan |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2792 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7500 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 265 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5750 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.1 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89.3 mm | 90.3 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 490 kg | 1752 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2850 mm |
