2000 Caterham C21 vs. 2012 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen GTI is newer by 12 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen GTI is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen GTI (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 85 more horse power than 2000 Caterham C21. (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen GTI should accelerate faster than 2000 Caterham C21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen GTI weights approximately 743 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, 2012 Volkswagen GTI, 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, 2012 Volkswagen GTI (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 135 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Caterham C21. (145 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen GTI will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Caterham C21.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Caterham C21 | 2012 Volkswagen GTI | |
| Make | Caterham | Volkswagen |
| Model | C21 | GTI |
| Year Released | 2000 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 650 kg | 1393 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4213 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1501 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2578 mm |
