1998 Caterham C21 vs. 2007 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2007 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 9 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 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 115 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 633 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, 2007 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, 2007 Volkswagen Jetta (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Caterham C21. (146 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2007 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Caterham C21.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Caterham C21 | 2007 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Caterham | Volkswagen |
| Model | C21 | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 650 kg | 1283 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2580 mm |
