1997 Caterham C21 vs. 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton
To start off, 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton 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 4,921 cc (10 cylinders), 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton (308 HP @ 3750 RPM) has 193 more horse power than 1997 Caterham C21. (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton should accelerate faster than 1997 Caterham C21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton weights approximately 1839 kg more than 1997 Caterham C21. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Caterham C21. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton will offer significantly more control. 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 Phaeton (750 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 605 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Caterham C21. (145 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Caterham C21. 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton 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 Phaeton will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Caterham C21 | 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton | |
| Make | Caterham | Volkswagen |
| Model | C21 | Phaeton |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 4921 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 10 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 308 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 750 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 650 kg | 2489 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 5180 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 3010 mm |
