2004 Caterham 7 vs. 1955 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2004 Caterham 7 is newer by 49 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Caterham 7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Caterham 7 (251 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 213 more horse power than 1955 Volkswagen Beetle. (38 HP @ 3900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 1955 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1955 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 270 kg more than 2004 Caterham 7.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2004 Caterham 7 (258 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 169 more torque (in Nm) than 1955 Volkswagen Beetle. (89 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2004 Caterham 7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1955 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
2004 Caterham 7 | 1955 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Caterham | Volkswagen |
Model | 7 | Beetle |
Year Released | 2004 | 1955 |
Engine Position | Front | Rear |
Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1192 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
Horse Power | 251 HP | 38 HP |
Engine RPM | 8000 RPM | 3900 RPM |
Torque | 258 Nm | 89 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 470 kg | 740 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4070 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1560 mm |
Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1510 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2410 mm |