1995 Caterham 21 vs. 2006 Volkswagen Sharan
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen Sharan is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 Caterham 21. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 Caterham 21 would be higher. At 2,792 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Volkswagen Sharan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volkswagen Sharan (201 HP @ 3400 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 1995 Caterham 21. (138 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen Sharan should accelerate faster than 1995 Caterham 21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volkswagen Sharan weights approximately 537 kg more than 1995 Caterham 21. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1995 Caterham 21 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 1995 Caterham 21. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen Sharan, 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 Sharan (265 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 109 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 Caterham 21. (156 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2006 Volkswagen Sharan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 Caterham 21. 2006 Volkswagen Sharan has automatic transmission and 1995 Caterham 21 has manual transmission. 1995 Caterham 21 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Volkswagen Sharan will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 Caterham 21 | 2006 Volkswagen Sharan | |
| Make | Caterham | Volkswagen |
| Model | 21 | Sharan |
| Year Released | 1995 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2792 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Torque | 156 Nm | 265 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.7:1 |
| Top Speed | 211 km/hour | 209 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 648 kg | 1185 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1070 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2850 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 70 L |
