1996 Caterham 7 vs. 1977 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1996 Caterham 7 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Caterham 7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Caterham 7 (138 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 95 more horse power than 1977 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 1977 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 342 kg more than 1996 Caterham 7.
Because 1996 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 1996 Caterham 7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1977 Volkswagen 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, 1996 Caterham 7 (156 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Volkswagen Beetle. (87 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 Caterham 7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Caterham 7 | 1977 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Caterham | Volkswagen |
Model | 7 | Beetle |
Year Released | 1996 | 1977 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1285 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 43 HP |
Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 4100 RPM |
Torque | 156 Nm | 87 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 478 kg | 820 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4070 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1560 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2410 mm |