2000 Caterham 21 vs. 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2000 Caterham 21 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle would be higher. At 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Caterham 21 (230 HP @ 8600 RPM) has 141 more horse power than 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle. (89 HP @ 3750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2000 Caterham 21 should accelerate faster than 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 708 kg more than 2000 Caterham 21.
Because 2000 Caterham 21 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 2000 Caterham 21. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, both vehicles can yield 210 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Caterham 21 | 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Caterham | Volkswagen |
| Model | 21 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 2000 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1794 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 230 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8600 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 7200 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 540 kg | 1248 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1730 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 100 L | 55 L |
