1995 Caterham 21 vs. 2000 Opel Meriva
To start off, 2000 Opel Meriva is newer by 5 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), 2000 Opel Meriva is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 Caterham 21 (138 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 2000 Opel Meriva. (123 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1995 Caterham 21 should accelerate faster than 2000 Opel Meriva. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Opel Meriva weights approximately 702 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, 2000 Opel Meriva, 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, 2000 Opel Meriva (229 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 73 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 Caterham 21. (156 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2000 Opel Meriva will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 Caterham 21.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 Caterham 21 | 2000 Opel Meriva | |
| Make | Caterham | Opel |
| Model | 21 | Meriva |
| Year Released | 1995 | 2000 |
| 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 | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 156 Nm | 229 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 80.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 88.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 648 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1070 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 53 L |
