2000 Caterham 21 vs. 2008 Volvo C30
To start off, 2008 Volvo C30 is newer by 8 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 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volvo C30 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Caterham 21 (230 HP @ 8600 RPM) has 87 more horse power than 2008 Volvo C30. (143 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2000 Caterham 21 should accelerate faster than 2008 Volvo C30. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volvo C30 weights approximately 787 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, 2008 Volvo C30, 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 25 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volvo C30. (185 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2000 Caterham 21 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volvo C30.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Caterham 21 | 2008 Volvo C30 | |
| Make | Caterham | Volvo |
| Model | 21 | C30 |
| Year Released | 2000 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1794 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 230 HP | 143 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 185 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 7200 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89.3 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 241 km/hour | 210 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 540 kg | 1327 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 100 L | 55 L |
