1997 Caterham C21 vs. 2005 Volvo S80
To start off, 2005 Volvo S80 is newer by 8 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 2,435 cc (5 cylinders), 2005 Volvo S80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Caterham C21 (138 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 2005 Volvo S80. (134 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Caterham C21 should accelerate faster than 2005 Volvo S80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volvo S80 weights approximately 876 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, 2005 Volvo S80, 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, 2005 Volvo S80 (220 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 67 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Caterham C21. (153 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2005 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Caterham C21.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Caterham C21 | 2005 Volvo S80 | |
Make | Caterham | Volvo |
Model | C21 | S80 |
Year Released | 1997 | 2005 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2435 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 134 HP |
Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Torque | 153 Nm | 220 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 83 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 90 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.3:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 654 kg | 1530 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4830 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1840 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2720 mm |