2004 Caterham 7 vs. 2001 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2004 Caterham 7 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Opel Vectra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Opel Vectra would be higher. At 2,198 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Opel Vectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Caterham 7 (251 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 106 more horse power than 2001 Opel Vectra. (145 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 2001 Opel Vectra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Opel Vectra weights approximately 1015 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, 2001 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 (258 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Opel Vectra. (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Caterham 7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Opel Vectra. 2001 Opel Vectra has automatic transmission and 2004 Caterham 7 has manual transmission. 2004 Caterham 7 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Opel Vectra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Caterham 7 | 2001 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | Caterham | Opel |
| Model | 7 | Vectra |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 2198 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 251 HP | 145 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 258 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Top Speed | 241 km/hour | 210 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 470 kg | 1485 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2610 mm |
