2003 Caterham 7 vs. 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Caterham 7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Caterham 7 would be higher. At 2,475 cc (5 cylinders), 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Caterham 7 (160 HP @ 7500 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle. (150 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 662 kg more than 2003 Caterham 7.
Because 2003 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 2003 Caterham 7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle (232 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Caterham 7. (176 Nm @ 5750 RPM). This means 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Caterham 7.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Caterham 7 | 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
Make | Caterham | Volkswagen |
Model | 7 | New Beetle |
Year Released | 2003 | 2006 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1794 cc | 2475 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 160 HP | 150 HP |
Engine RPM | 7500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 176 Nm | 232 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5750 RPM | 3750 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 82.6 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 89.3 mm | 92.7 mm |
Top Speed | 209 km/hour | 204 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 500 kg | 1162 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4100 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1510 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2520 mm |