1997 Caterham C21 vs. 1973 Volkswagen K 70
To start off, 1997 Caterham C21 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Volkswagen K 70. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Volkswagen K 70 would be higher. At 1,605 cc (4 cylinders), 1973 Volkswagen K 70 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Caterham C21 (138 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 1973 Volkswagen K 70. (75 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Caterham C21 should accelerate faster than 1973 Volkswagen K 70. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Volkswagen K 70 weights approximately 396 kg more than 1997 Caterham C21.
Because 1997 Caterham C21 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 1997 Caterham C21. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1973 Volkswagen K 70, 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, 1997 Caterham C21 (153 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Volkswagen K 70. (123 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1997 Caterham C21 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Volkswagen K 70.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Caterham C21 | 1973 Volkswagen K 70 | |
Make | Caterham | Volkswagen |
Model | C21 | K 70 |
Year Released | 1997 | 1973 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1605 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 75 HP |
Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 153 Nm | 123 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 82 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 76 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 8.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 654 kg | 1050 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4430 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1700 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2700 mm |