2004 Caterham 7 vs. 1994 Opel Astra
To start off, 2004 Caterham 7 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1994 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1994 Opel Astra would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Caterham 7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Caterham 7 (251 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 128 more horse power than 1994 Opel Astra. (123 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 1994 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1994 Opel Astra weights approximately 643 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, 1994 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, 2004 Caterham 7 (258 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 Opel Astra. (168 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2004 Caterham 7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1994 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Caterham 7 | 1994 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Caterham | Opel |
| Model | 7 | Astra |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1994 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1795 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 251 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 258 Nm | 168 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Top Speed | 241 km/hour | 201 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 470 kg | 1113 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2520 mm |
