2004 Caterham 7 vs. 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 2004 Caterham 7 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit would be higher. At 2,261 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Caterham 7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Caterham 7 (200 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 130 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit. (70 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit weights approximately 270 kg more than 2004 Caterham 7.
Because 2004 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 2004 Caterham 7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit, 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, 2004 Caterham 7 (224 Nm @ 5750 RPM) has 122 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit. (102 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2004 Caterham 7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Compare all specifications:
2004 Caterham 7 | 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
Make | Caterham | Volkswagen |
Model | 7 | Rabbit |
Year Released | 2004 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2261 cc | 1457 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 200 HP | 70 HP |
Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 224 Nm | 102 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5750 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 87.6 mm | 79.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 73.4 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 540 kg | 810 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3310 mm | 3950 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1620 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2410 mm |