2004 Caterham 7 vs. 2008 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 4 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 2,496 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Caterham 7 (251 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 90 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. (161 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 1040 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, 2008 Volkswagen Passat, 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, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (350 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 92 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Caterham 7. (258 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Caterham 7.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Caterham 7 | 2008 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Caterham | Volkswagen |
| Model | 7 | Passat |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 2496 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 251 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 258 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Top Speed | 241 km/hour | 226 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 470 kg | 1510 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2710 mm |
