1997 Caterham C21 vs. 2013 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 16 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 1,587 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Caterham C21 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Volkswagen Jetta (148 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1997 Caterham C21. (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1997 Caterham C21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 855 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, 2013 Volkswagen Jetta, 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, 2013 Volkswagen Jetta (220 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Caterham C21. (145 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2013 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Caterham C21. 2013 Volkswagen Jetta 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. 2013 Volkswagen Jetta will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Caterham C21 | 2013 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Caterham | Volkswagen |
| Model | C21 | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 1400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 74 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 650 kg | 1505 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4628 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1778 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1453 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2651 mm |
