1991 Caterham Super 7 vs. 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Caterham Super 7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Caterham Super 7 would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Caterham Super 7 (120 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle. (114 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Caterham Super 7 should accelerate faster than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 889 kg more than 1991 Caterham Super 7.
Because 1991 Caterham Super 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 1991 Caterham Super 7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle, 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, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle (172 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Caterham Super 7. (143 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Caterham Super 7.
Compare all specifications:
1991 Caterham Super 7 | 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
Make | Caterham | Volkswagen |
Model | Super 7 | New Beetle |
Year Released | 1991 | 2006 |
Body Type | Roadster | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1599 cc | 1984 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 120 HP | 114 HP |
Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5400 RPM |
Torque | 143 Nm | 172 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 82.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 77.6 mm | 92.8 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.3:1 |
Top Speed | 180 km/hour | 185 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 510 kg | 1399 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3380 mm | 4090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1510 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2520 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 36 L | 55 L |