1998 Caterham C21 vs. 2004 Volvo V50
To start off, 2004 Volvo V50 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Caterham C21. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Caterham C21 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Volvo V50 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volvo V50 (134 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1998 Caterham C21. (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volvo V50 should accelerate faster than 1998 Caterham C21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volvo V50 weights approximately 775 kg more than 1998 Caterham C21. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 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 1998 Caterham C21. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Volvo V50, 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, 2004 Volvo V50 (350 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 204 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Caterham C21. (146 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Volvo V50 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Caterham C21.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Caterham C21 | 2004 Volvo V50 | |
| Make | Caterham | Volvo |
| Model | C21 | V50 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 88 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 650 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2720 mm |
