2000 Caterham C21 vs. 2011 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 11 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 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2011 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Volkswagen Golf (170 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 2000 Caterham C21. (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2000 Caterham C21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 696 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, 2011 Volkswagen Golf, 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, 2011 Volkswagen Golf (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Caterham C21. (145 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2011 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Caterham C21.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Caterham C21 | 2011 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Caterham | Volkswagen |
| Model | C21 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2000 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 650 kg | 1346 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4199 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2578 mm |
