1997 Caterham C21 vs. 2006 Volkswagen Sharan
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen Sharan 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 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Volkswagen Sharan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volkswagen Sharan (148 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1997 Caterham C21. (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen Sharan should accelerate faster than 1997 Caterham C21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volkswagen Sharan weights approximately 1018 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 Volkswagen Sharan, 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 Volkswagen Sharan (211 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Caterham C21. (145 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Volkswagen Sharan 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 Sharan | |
| Make | Caterham | Volkswagen |
| Model | C21 | Sharan |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 211 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 650 kg | 1668 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2850 mm |
