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 2,917 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Volvo S80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volvo S80 (268 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 130 more horse power than 1997 Caterham C21. (138 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 1997 Caterham C21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volvo S80 weights approximately 963 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, 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 (380 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 227 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 | 2917 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 268 HP |
Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
Torque | 153 Nm | 380 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 83 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 90 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 8.7:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 654 kg | 1617 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4860 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1840 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2760 mm |