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 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2013 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Volkswagen Jetta (168 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1997 Caterham C21. (138 HP @ 7000 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 727 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 (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 87 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Caterham C21. (153 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2013 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Caterham C21.
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 | 1588 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 153 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 654 kg | 1381 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 |
