1995 Caterham 21 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 17 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 1,800 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Passat (158 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1995 Caterham 21. (138 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1995 Caterham 21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 882 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, 2012 Volkswagen Passat, 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, 2012 Volkswagen Passat (250 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 94 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 Caterham 21. (156 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 Caterham 21.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 Caterham 21 | 2012 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Caterham | Volkswagen |
| Model | 21 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1995 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 156 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Top Speed | 211 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 648 kg | 1530 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4771 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1070 mm | 1516 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2712 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 70 L |
