2000 Caterham C21 vs. 2008 Volvo XC90

To start off, 2008 Volvo XC90 is newer by 8 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 2,401 cc (5 cylinders), 2008 Volvo XC90 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volvo XC90 (182 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 2000 Caterham C21. (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volvo XC90 should accelerate faster than 2000 Caterham C21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volvo XC90 weights approximately 1530 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 2008 Volvo XC90 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2000 Caterham C21. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volvo XC90 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2008 Volvo XC90 (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 255 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Caterham C21. (145 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Volvo XC90 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Caterham C21. 2008 Volvo XC90 has automatic transmission and 2000 Caterham C21 has manual transmission. 2000 Caterham C21 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Volvo XC90 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2000 Caterham C21 2008 Volvo XC90
Make Caterham Volvo
Model C21 XC90
Year Released 2000 2008
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1588 cc 2401 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 5 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 115 HP 182 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 4000 RPM
Torque 145 Nm 400 Nm
Torque RPM 3000 RPM 2000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 80 mm 81.1 mm
Engine Stroke Size 79 mm 93.2 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 10.5:1 17.3:1
Fuel Type Gasoline Diesel
Drive Type Rear 4WD
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 2 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 650 kg 2180 kg
Vehicle Length 3810 mm 4800 mm
Vehicle Width 1590 mm 1900 mm
Vehicle Height 1060 mm 1750 mm
Wheelbase Size 2260 mm 2860 mm