2004 Caterham 7 vs. 2001 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2004 Caterham 7 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 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 71 more horse power than 2001 Volkswagen Beetle. (180 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 2001 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 843 kg more than 2004 Caterham 7.
Because 2004 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 2004 Caterham 7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 2004 Caterham 7 (258 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Volkswagen Beetle. (235 Nm @ 1950 RPM). This means 2004 Caterham 7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
2004 Caterham 7 | 2001 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Caterham | Volkswagen |
Model | 7 | Beetle |
Year Released | 2004 | 2001 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1799 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 251 HP | 180 HP |
Engine RPM | 8000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 258 Nm | 235 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1950 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 470 kg | 1313 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 |