1997 Caterham C21 vs. 2008 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 11 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 3,189 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Caterham C21 (250 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (247 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Caterham C21 should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 904 kg more than 1997 Caterham C21.
Because 2008 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, 2008 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, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (320 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 68 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Caterham C21. (252 Nm @ 5750 RPM). This means 2008 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 | 2008 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Caterham | Volkswagen |
| Model | C21 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 3189 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 250 HP | 247 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8000 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 252 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5750 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 690 kg | 1594 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2580 mm |
