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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Caterham C21 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Caterham C21 (250 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 112 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (138 HP @ 4000 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 590 kg more than 1997 Caterham C21.
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, 2008 Volkswagen Golf, 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, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (320 Nm @ 1750 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 | 1966 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 250 HP | 138 HP |
Engine RPM | 8000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 252 Nm | 320 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5750 RPM | 1750 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 690 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 |