1997 Caterham C21 vs. 2011 Volvo V70
To start off, 2011 Volvo V70 is newer by 14 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 3,192 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Volvo V70 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Volvo V70 (235 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 120 more horse power than 1997 Caterham C21. (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volvo V70 should accelerate faster than 1997 Caterham C21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volvo V70 weights approximately 948 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, 2011 Volvo V70, 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, 2011 Volvo V70 (320 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 175 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Caterham C21. (145 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2011 Volvo V70 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Caterham C21. 2011 Volvo V70 has automatic transmission and 1997 Caterham C21 has manual transmission. 1997 Caterham C21 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Volvo V70 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Caterham C21 | 2011 Volvo V70 | |
| Make | Caterham | Volvo |
| Model | C21 | V70 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 3192 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 235 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 650 kg | 1598 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2820 mm |
