1997 Caterham C21 vs. 2002 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2002 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Caterham C21. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Caterham C21 would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Caterham C21 (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 2002 Volkswagen Golf. (113 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Caterham C21 should accelerate faster than 2002 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 455 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, 2002 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, 2002 Volkswagen Golf (172 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Caterham C21. (145 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2002 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Caterham C21. 2002 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 1997 Caterham C21 has manual transmission. 1997 Caterham C21 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Caterham C21 | 2002 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Caterham | Volkswagen |
Model | C21 | Golf |
Year Released | 1997 | 2002 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1587 cc | 1984 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 115 HP | 113 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
Torque | 145 Nm | 172 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Vehicle Weight | 650 kg | 1105 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4148 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1735 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2512 mm |