1996 Caterham 7 vs. 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Caterham 7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Caterham 7 would be higher. At 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Caterham 7 (138 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle. (114 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 900 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, 2002 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, 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle (220 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Caterham 7. (156 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Caterham 7.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Caterham 7 | 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
Make | Caterham | Volkswagen |
Model | 7 | New Beetle |
Year Released | 1996 | 2002 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1896 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 114 HP |
Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Torque | 156 Nm | 220 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 19.0:1 |
Top Speed | 203 km/hour | 177 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 478 kg | 1378 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1520 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2710 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 36 L | 55 L |