2000 Caterham C21 vs. 2004 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2000 Caterham C21. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2000 Caterham C21 would be higher. At 1,786 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen Passat (170 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 2000 Caterham C21. (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 2000 Caterham C21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 868 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, 2004 Volkswagen Passat, 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, 2004 Volkswagen Passat (225 Nm) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Caterham C21. (145 Nm). This means 2004 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Caterham C21.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Caterham C21 | 2004 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Caterham | Volkswagen |
| Model | C21 | Passat |
| Year Released | 2000 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1786 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 225 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 650 kg | 1518 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2520 mm |
