1995 Caterham 21 vs. 1999 Opel Vectra
To start off, 1999 Opel Vectra is newer by 4 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 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Opel Vectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 Caterham 21 (138 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1999 Opel Vectra. (114 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1995 Caterham 21 should accelerate faster than 1999 Opel Vectra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Opel Vectra weights approximately 744 kg more than 1995 Caterham 21.
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, 1999 Opel Vectra, 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, 1999 Opel Vectra (170 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 Caterham 21. (156 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1999 Opel Vectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 Caterham 21.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 Caterham 21 | 1999 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | Caterham | Opel |
| Model | 21 | Vectra |
| Year Released | 1995 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 156 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 80.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 88.2 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 648 kg | 1392 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1070 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2650 mm |
