1998 Caterham C21 vs. 2012 Volvo XC70
To start off, 2012 Volvo XC70 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 (5 cylinders), 2012 Volvo XC70 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volvo XC70 weights approximately 1230 kg more than 1998 Caterham C21.
Because 2012 Volvo XC70 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Caterham C21. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Volvo XC70 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, 2012 Volvo XC70 (400 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 254 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Caterham C21. (146 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Volvo XC70 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Caterham C21. 2012 Volvo XC70 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. 2012 Volvo XC70 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Caterham C21 | 2012 Volvo XC70 | |
| Make | Caterham | Volvo |
| Model | C21 | XC70 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 650 kg | 1880 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4838 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1862 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1604 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2815 mm |
