2002 Caterham Superlight R vs. 1999 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2002 Caterham Superlight R is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 1,795 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Caterham Superlight R is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Caterham Superlight R (190 HP @ 7500 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1999 Volkswagen Beetle. (148 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Caterham Superlight R should accelerate faster than 1999 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 808 kg more than 2002 Caterham Superlight R.
Because 2002 Caterham Superlight R 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 2002 Caterham Superlight R. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 1999 Volkswagen Beetle (220 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Caterham Superlight R. (203 Nm @ 5750 RPM). This means 1999 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Caterham Superlight R. 1999 Volkswagen Beetle has automatic transmission and 2002 Caterham Superlight R has manual transmission. 2002 Caterham Superlight R will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Volkswagen Beetle will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2002 Caterham Superlight R | 1999 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Caterham | Volkswagen |
Model | Superlight R | Beetle |
Year Released | 2002 | 1999 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1795 cc | 1786 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 190 HP | 148 HP |
Engine RPM | 7500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 203 Nm | 220 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5750 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 194 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 490 kg | 1298 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1500 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2470 mm |