2000 Caterham 21 vs. 2002 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2002 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2000 Caterham 21. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2000 Caterham 21 would be higher. At 1,799 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Caterham 21 (230 HP @ 8600 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 2002 Volkswagen Golf. (180 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2000 Caterham 21 should accelerate faster than 2002 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 846 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, 2002 Volkswagen Golf, 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, 2002 Volkswagen Golf (236 Nm) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Caterham 21. (210 Nm). This means 2002 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Caterham 21.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Caterham 21 | 2002 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Caterham | Volkswagen |
| Model | 21 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2000 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1794 cc | 1799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 230 HP | 180 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8600 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 236 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 540 kg | 1386 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 100 L | 55 L |
