1997 Caterham C21 vs. 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Caterham C21. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Caterham C21 would be higher. At 1,587 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Caterham C21 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Caterham C21 (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle. (74 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Caterham C21 should accelerate faster than 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 688 kg more than 1997 Caterham C21.
Because 1997 Caterham C21 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 1997 Caterham C21. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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, 1997 Caterham C21 (145 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle. (126 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1997 Caterham C21 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Caterham C21 | 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Caterham | Volkswagen |
| Model | C21 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 1388 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 75.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 650 kg | 1338 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2520 mm |
