1997 Caterham C21 vs. 1996 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 1997 Caterham C21 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Caterham C21 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Caterham C21 (250 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 187 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. (63 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Caterham C21 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Volkswagen Polo weights approximately 410 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, 1996 Volkswagen Polo, 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 (252 Nm @ 5750 RPM) has 127 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. (125 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 1997 Caterham C21 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Caterham C21 | 1996 Volkswagen Polo | |
Make | Caterham | Volkswagen |
Model | C21 | Polo |
Year Released | 1997 | 1996 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1896 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 250 HP | 63 HP |
Engine RPM | 8000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Torque | 252 Nm | 125 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5750 RPM | 2200 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 690 kg | 1100 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4150 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1650 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2410 mm |