1998 Caterham C21 vs. 2005 Skoda Octavia
To start off, 2005 Skoda Octavia is newer by 7 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 1,968 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Skoda Octavia is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Caterham C21 (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 2005 Skoda Octavia. (113 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Caterham C21 should accelerate faster than 2005 Skoda Octavia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Skoda Octavia weights approximately 675 kg more than 1998 Caterham C21.
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, 2005 Skoda Octavia, 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, 2005 Skoda Octavia (172 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Caterham C21. (146 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Skoda Octavia will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Caterham C21.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Caterham C21 | 2005 Skoda Octavia | |
| Make | Caterham | Skoda |
| Model | C21 | Octavia |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1968 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 650 kg | 1325 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2520 mm |
