1997 Caterham C21 vs. 1986 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1997 Caterham C21 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Caterham C21 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Caterham C21 (138 HP) has 85 more horse power than 1986 Volkswagen Golf. (53 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Caterham C21 should accelerate faster than 1986 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 176 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, 1986 Volkswagen Golf, 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 57 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Volkswagen Golf. (96 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1997 Caterham C21 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Caterham C21 | 1986 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Caterham | Volkswagen |
Model | C21 | Golf |
Year Released | 1997 | 1986 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1272 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 53 HP |
Torque | 153 Nm | 96 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3400 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 75 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 72 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 654 kg | 830 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 3990 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1670 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2340 mm |