2004 Caterham 7 vs. 2007 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2007 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Caterham 7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Caterham 7 would be higher. At 3,168 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Caterham 7 (251 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 2007 Volkswagen Passat. (247 HP @ 6250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 2007 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 1245 kg more than 2004 Caterham 7.
Because 2007 Volkswagen Passat is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 Caterham 7. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 Volkswagen Passat will offer significantly more control. 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, 2007 Volkswagen Passat (330 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Caterham 7. (258 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2007 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Caterham 7. 2007 Volkswagen Passat 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. 2007 Volkswagen Passat will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Caterham 7 | 2007 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Caterham | Volkswagen |
| Model | 7 | Passat |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 3168 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 251 HP | 247 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8000 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 258 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Top Speed | 241 km/hour | 243 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 470 kg | 1715 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2720 mm |
