2000 Caterham 21 vs. 2003 Volvo V50
To start off, 2003 Volvo V50 is newer by 3 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 1,798 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Volvo V50 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Caterham 21 (230 HP @ 8600 RPM) has 107 more horse power than 2003 Volvo V50. (123 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2000 Caterham 21 should accelerate faster than 2003 Volvo V50. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volvo V50 weights approximately 1158 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, 2003 Volvo V50, 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 45 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volvo V50. (165 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2000 Caterham 21 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volvo V50.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Caterham 21 | 2003 Volvo V50 | |
| Make | Caterham | Volvo |
| Model | 21 | V50 |
| Year Released | 2000 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1794 cc | 1798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 230 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 7200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89.3 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 540 kg | 1698 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1780 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 100 L | 62 L |
