1997 Caterham C21 vs. 2013 Volvo XC90
To start off, 2013 Volvo XC90 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 3,200 cc (6 cylinders), 2013 Volvo XC90 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Volvo XC90 (237 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 122 more horse power than 1997 Caterham C21. (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volvo XC90 should accelerate faster than 1997 Caterham C21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Volvo XC90 weights approximately 1510 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 Volvo XC90, 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 Volvo XC90 (320 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 175 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Caterham C21. (145 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2013 Volvo XC90 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Caterham C21.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Caterham C21 | 2013 Volvo XC90 | |
| Make | Caterham | Volvo |
| Model | C21 | XC90 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 3200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 6 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 237 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 96 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 650 kg | 2160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4807 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1936 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1784 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2857 mm |
