1998 Caterham C21 vs. 2006 Volvo XC90
To start off, 2006 Volvo XC90 is newer by 8 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 2,401 cc (5 cylinders), 2006 Volvo XC90 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volvo XC90 (182 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 1998 Caterham C21. (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volvo XC90 should accelerate faster than 1998 Caterham C21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volvo XC90 weights approximately 1530 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 2006 Volvo XC90 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Caterham C21. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Volvo XC90 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2006 Volvo XC90 (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 254 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Caterham C21. (146 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Volvo XC90 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Caterham C21. 2006 Volvo XC90 has automatic transmission and 1998 Caterham C21 has manual transmission. 1998 Caterham C21 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Volvo XC90 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Caterham C21 | 2006 Volvo XC90 | |
| Make | Caterham | Volvo |
| Model | C21 | XC90 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2401 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 93.2 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 650 kg | 2180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2860 mm |
