1997 Caterham C21 vs. 2006 Skoda Octavia
To start off, 2006 Skoda Octavia is newer by 9 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 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Skoda Octavia is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Skoda Octavia (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1997 Caterham C21. (138 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Skoda Octavia should accelerate faster than 1997 Caterham C21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Skoda Octavia weights approximately 796 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, 2006 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, 2006 Skoda Octavia (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Caterham C21. (153 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2006 Skoda Octavia will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Caterham C21. 2006 Skoda Octavia 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. 2006 Skoda Octavia will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Caterham C21 | 2006 Skoda Octavia | |
| Make | Caterham | Skoda |
| Model | C21 | Octavia |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 153 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 11.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 654 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2580 mm |
