1997 Caterham C21 vs. 2010 Volkswagen T5
To start off, 2010 Volkswagen T5 is newer by 13 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 2,459 cc (5 cylinders), 2010 Volkswagen T5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Volkswagen T5 (172 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 1997 Caterham C21. (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Volkswagen T5 should accelerate faster than 1997 Caterham C21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Volkswagen T5 weights approximately 574 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, 2010 Volkswagen T5, 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, 2010 Volkswagen T5 (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 255 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Caterham C21. (145 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2010 Volkswagen T5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Caterham C21.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Caterham C21 | 2010 Volkswagen T5 | |
| Make | Caterham | Volkswagen |
| Model | C21 | T5 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2010 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 2459 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 172 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2000 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 | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 650 kg | 1224 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 2000 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 3010 mm |
