1997 Caterham C21 vs. 1981 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1997 Caterham C21 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Caterham C21 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Caterham C21 (138 HP) has 79 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Caterham C21 should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 286 kg more than 1997 Caterham C21.
Because 1997 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 1997 Caterham C21. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 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, 1997 Caterham C21 (153 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Passat. (100 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1997 Caterham C21 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Caterham C21 | 1981 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Caterham | Volkswagen |
| Model | C21 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1295 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 153 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 73.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 654 kg | 940 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2560 mm |
