1995 Caterham 21 vs. 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier
To start off, 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 Caterham 21. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 Caterham 21 would be higher. At 2,392 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1995 Caterham 21. (138 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier should accelerate faster than 1995 Caterham 21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier weights approximately 539 kg more than 1995 Caterham 21. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1995 Caterham 21 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 1995 Caterham 21. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier, 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, 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier (210 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 54 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 Caterham 21. (156 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 Caterham 21.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 Caterham 21 | 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier | |
| Make | Caterham | Chevrolet |
| Model | 21 | Cavalier |
| Year Released | 1995 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2392 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 156 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 648 kg | 1187 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1070 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 57 L |
