1997 Caterham C21 vs. 2004 Skoda Octavia
To start off, 2004 Skoda Octavia is newer by 7 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 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Skoda Octavia is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Skoda Octavia (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1997 Caterham C21. (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Skoda Octavia should accelerate faster than 1997 Caterham C21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Skoda Octavia weights approximately 700 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, 2004 Skoda Octavia, 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, 2004 Skoda Octavia (310 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 165 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Caterham C21. (145 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Skoda Octavia will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Caterham C21.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Caterham C21 | 2004 Skoda Octavia | |
| Make | Caterham | Skoda |
| Model | C21 | Octavia |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 650 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2520 mm |
