2000 Caterham 21 vs. 1971 Volkswagen K 70
To start off, 2000 Caterham 21 is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Volkswagen K 70. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Volkswagen K 70 would be higher. At 1,794 cc (4 cylinders), 2000 Caterham 21 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Caterham 21 (230 HP @ 8600 RPM) has 156 more horse power than 1971 Volkswagen K 70. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2000 Caterham 21 should accelerate faster than 1971 Volkswagen K 70. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Volkswagen K 70 weights approximately 510 kg more than 2000 Caterham 21.
Because 2000 Caterham 21 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 2000 Caterham 21. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1971 Volkswagen K 70, 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, 2000 Caterham 21 (210 Nm @ 7200 RPM) has 87 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Volkswagen K 70. (123 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2000 Caterham 21 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Volkswagen K 70.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Caterham 21 | 1971 Volkswagen K 70 | |
| Make | Caterham | Volkswagen |
| Model | 21 | K 70 |
| Year Released | 2000 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1794 cc | 1604 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 230 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 123 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 7200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89.3 mm | 76 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 241 km/hour | 148 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 540 kg | 1050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1700 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 100 L | 45 L |
