2004 Caterham 7 vs. 2012 Volkswagen CC
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen CC is newer by 8 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen CC is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Caterham 7 (251 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen CC. (200 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen CC. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen CC weights approximately 1043 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, 2012 Volkswagen CC, 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, 2012 Volkswagen CC (280 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Caterham 7. (258 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen CC will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Caterham 7. 2012 Volkswagen CC 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. 2012 Volkswagen CC will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Caterham 7 | 2012 Volkswagen CC | |
| Make | Caterham | Volkswagen |
| Model | 7 | CC |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 251 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8000 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 258 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1700 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 470 kg | 1513 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4799 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1855 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1417 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2708 mm |
