1997 Caterham C21 vs. 2006 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen Golf 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 1,968 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 138 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 626 kg more than 1997 Caterham C21.
Because 2006 Volkswagen Golf is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Caterham C21. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen Golf will offer significantly more control. 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 Volkswagen Golf (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 167 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Caterham C21. (153 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2006 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Caterham C21.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Caterham C21 | 2006 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Caterham | Volkswagen |
Model | C21 | Golf |
Year Released | 1997 | 2006 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1968 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 138 HP |
Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 153 Nm | 320 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 95.5 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 18.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 654 kg | 1280 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4210 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1490 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2590 mm |