2000 Caterham C21 vs. 2013 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen GTI is newer by 13 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), 2013 Volkswagen GTI is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Volkswagen GTI (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 2000 Caterham C21. (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen GTI should accelerate faster than 2000 Caterham C21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Volkswagen GTI weights approximately 762 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, 2013 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, 2013 Volkswagen GTI (281 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 136 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Caterham C21. (145 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2013 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 | 2013 Volkswagen GTI | |
| Make | Caterham | Volkswagen |
| Model | C21 | GTI |
| Year Released | 2000 | 2013 |
| 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 | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 281 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.6:1 |
| 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 | 1412 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4213 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1779 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1469 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2578 mm |
