1997 Caterham C21 vs. 2004 Volvo C70
To start off, 2004 Volvo C70 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 2,319 cc (5 cylinders), 2004 Volvo C70 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Caterham C21 (250 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 2004 Volvo C70. (242 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Caterham C21 should accelerate faster than 2004 Volvo C70. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volvo C70 weights approximately 971 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 Volvo C70, 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 Volvo C70 (339 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 87 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Caterham C21. (252 Nm @ 5750 RPM). This means 2004 Volvo C70 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Caterham C21.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Caterham C21 | 2004 Volvo C70 | |
| Make | Caterham | Volvo |
| Model | C21 | C70 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2319 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 250 HP | 242 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 252 Nm | 339 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5750 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 690 kg | 1661 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2720 mm |
