1997 Caterham C21 vs. 2004 Volkswagen Bora
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Bora 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 1,595 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen Bora is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Caterham C21 (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen Bora. (104 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Caterham C21 should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen Bora. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen Bora weights approximately 561 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, 2004 Volkswagen Bora, 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 Volkswagen Bora (148 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Caterham C21. (145 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Volkswagen Bora will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Caterham C21. 2004 Volkswagen Bora 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. 2004 Volkswagen Bora will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Caterham C21 | 2004 Volkswagen Bora | |
| Make | Caterham | Volkswagen |
| Model | C21 | Bora |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 1595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 650 kg | 1211 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2520 mm |
