2004 Caterham 7 vs. 2002 Vauxhall Vectra
To start off, 2004 Caterham 7 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Vauxhall Vectra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Vauxhall Vectra would be higher. At 2,172 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Vauxhall Vectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Caterham 7 (251 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 128 more horse power than 2002 Vauxhall Vectra. (123 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 2002 Vauxhall Vectra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Vauxhall Vectra weights approximately 1110 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, 2002 Vauxhall 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, 2002 Vauxhall Vectra (280 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Caterham 7. (258 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2002 Vauxhall Vectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Caterham 7.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Caterham 7 | 2002 Vauxhall Vectra | |
| Make | Caterham | Vauxhall |
| Model | 7 | Vectra |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 2172 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 251 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 258 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 470 kg | 1580 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2710 mm |
