2004 Caterham 7 vs. 2009 Volkswagen T5
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen T5 is newer by 5 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 2,459 cc (5 cylinders), 2009 Volkswagen T5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Caterham 7 (200 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 2009 Volkswagen T5. (172 HP @ 3500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 2009 Volkswagen T5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen T5 weights approximately 684 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, 2009 Volkswagen T5, 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, 2009 Volkswagen T5 (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 176 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Caterham 7. (224 Nm @ 5750 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen T5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Caterham 7.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Caterham 7 | 2009 Volkswagen T5 | |
| Make | Caterham | Volkswagen |
| Model | 7 | T5 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2261 cc | 2459 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 172 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 224 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5750 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.6 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 540 kg | 1224 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3310 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 2000 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 3010 mm |
