2000 Caterham C21 vs. 1998 Volvo S70
To start off, 2000 Caterham C21 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Volvo S70. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Volvo S70 would be higher. At 2,319 cc (5 cylinders), 1998 Volvo S70 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Volvo S70 (238 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 123 more horse power than 2000 Caterham C21. (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Volvo S70 should accelerate faster than 2000 Caterham C21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Volvo S70 weights approximately 856 kg more than 2000 Caterham C21. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1998 Volvo S70, 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, 1998 Volvo S70 (330 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 185 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Caterham C21. (145 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Volvo S70 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Caterham C21.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Caterham C21 | 1998 Volvo S70 | |
| Make | Caterham | Volvo |
| Model | C21 | S70 |
| Year Released | 2000 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2319 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 650 kg | 1506 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2670 mm |
