1996 Caterham 7 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 16 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 1996 Caterham 7. (138 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1996 Caterham 7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 902 kg more than 1996 Caterham 7. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2012 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, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle (280 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 124 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Caterham 7. (156 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Caterham 7. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle has automatic transmission and 1996 Caterham 7 has manual transmission. 1996 Caterham 7 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Caterham 7 | 2012 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Caterham | Volkswagen |
Model | 7 | Beetle |
Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 200 HP |
Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5100 RPM |
Torque | 156 Nm | 280 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 1700 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automated manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 478 kg | 1380 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4278 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1808 mm |
Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1486 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2537 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 36 L | 55 L |