1997 Caterham C21 vs. 2003 Volvo S40
To start off, 2003 Volvo S40 is newer by 6 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 2,523 cc (5 cylinders), 2003 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volvo S40 (216 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 78 more horse power than 1997 Caterham C21. (138 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1997 Caterham C21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volvo S40 weights approximately 771 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 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, 2003 Volvo S40, 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, 2003 Volvo S40 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 167 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Caterham C21. (153 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2003 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Caterham C21. 2003 Volvo S40 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. 2003 Volvo S40 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Caterham C21 | 2003 Volvo S40 | |
Make | Caterham | Volvo |
Model | C21 | S40 |
Year Released | 1997 | 2003 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2523 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 216 HP |
Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 153 Nm | 320 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 83 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 93.2 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 654 kg | 1425 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4470 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1780 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2670 mm |