1998 Caterham C21 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Tiguan
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Tiguan is newer by 14 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Tiguan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Caterham C21 (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Tiguan. (108 HP @ 2750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Caterham C21 should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Tiguan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Tiguan weights approximately 893 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, 2012 Volkswagen Tiguan, 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, 2012 Volkswagen Tiguan (280 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 134 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Caterham C21. (146 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Tiguan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Caterham C21.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Caterham C21 | 2012 Volkswagen Tiguan | |
| Make | Caterham | Volkswagen |
| Model | C21 | Tiguan |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 650 kg | 1543 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4426 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1809 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1703 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2604 mm |
