2002 Caterham Superlight R vs. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Caterham Superlight R. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Caterham Superlight R would be higher. At 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2013 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Caterham Superlight R (190 HP @ 7500 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 2013 Volkswagen Beetle. (168 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Caterham Superlight R should accelerate faster than 2013 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 870 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, 2013 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, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Caterham Superlight R. (203 Nm @ 5750 RPM). This means 2013 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Caterham Superlight R. 2013 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. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Caterham Superlight R | 2013 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Caterham | Volkswagen |
| Model | Superlight R | Beetle |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1795 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7500 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5750 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 490 kg | 1360 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4277 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1808 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1473 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2537 mm |
