2000 Caterham C21 vs. 1983 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2000 Caterham C21 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 2000 Caterham C21 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Caterham C21 (115 HP) has 76 more horse power than 1983 Volkswagen Polo. (39 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2000 Caterham C21 should accelerate faster than 1983 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Volkswagen Polo weights approximately 52 kg more than 2000 Caterham C21.
Because 2000 Caterham C21 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 C21. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 Volkswagen Polo, 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 C21 (145 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 71 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Volkswagen Polo. (74 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2000 Caterham C21 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Caterham C21 | 1983 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Caterham | Volkswagen |
| Model | C21 | Polo |
| Year Released | 2000 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1043 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 39 HP |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 74 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 59 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 650 kg | 702 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 3770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2400 mm |
