2004 Caterham 7 vs. 1999 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2004 Caterham 7 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Opel Vectra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Opel Vectra 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 119 more horse power than 1999 Opel Vectra. (81 HP @ 4300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 1999 Opel Vectra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Opel Vectra weights approximately 860 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, 1999 Opel Vectra, 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 39 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Opel Vectra. (185 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2004 Caterham 7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Opel Vectra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Caterham 7 | 1999 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | Caterham | Opel |
| Model | 7 | Vectra |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2261 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Torque | 224 Nm | 185 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5750 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.6 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 90 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 540 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3310 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2650 mm |
