2003 Caterham 7 vs. 2008 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 5 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 2,496 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Caterham 7 (200 HP @ 7500 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. (161 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 1093 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, 2008 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, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (350 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 140 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Caterham 7. (210 Nm @ 5750 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Caterham 7. 2008 Volkswagen Passat has automatic transmission and 2003 Caterham 7 has manual transmission. 2003 Caterham 7 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Volkswagen Passat will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Caterham 7 | 2008 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Caterham | Volkswagen |
Model | 7 | Passat |
Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2496 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 200 HP | 161 HP |
Engine RPM | 7500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 210 Nm | 350 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5750 RPM | 1500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 80.1 mm | 78.3 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 89.3 mm | 86.4 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 490 kg | 1583 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4690 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1750 mm |
Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1500 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2710 mm |