1995 Caterham 21 vs. 2008 Kia Spectra5
To start off, 2008 Kia Spectra5 is newer by 13 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 1,973 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Kia Spectra5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 138 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Kia Spectra5 weights approximately 637 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, 2008 Kia Spectra5, 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, 2008 Kia Spectra5 (184 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 Caterham 21. (156 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2008 Kia Spectra5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 Caterham 21.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 Caterham 21 | 2008 Kia Spectra5 | |
| Make | Caterham | Kia |
| Model | 21 | Spectra5 |
| Year Released | 1995 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1973 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 156 Nm | 184 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.1:1 |
| 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 | 1285 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4360 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1070 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 53 L |
