1997 Caterham C21 vs. 1976 Citroen CX
To start off, 1997 Caterham C21 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Citroen CX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Citroen CX would be higher. At 2,346 cc (4 cylinders), 1976 Citroen CX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Caterham C21 (138 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1976 Citroen CX. (128 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Caterham C21 should accelerate faster than 1976 Citroen CX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Citroen CX weights approximately 721 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, 1976 Citroen CX, 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, 1976 Citroen CX (197 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Caterham C21. (153 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1976 Citroen CX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Caterham C21. 1976 Citroen CX has automatic transmission and 1997 Caterham C21 has manual transmission. 1997 Caterham C21 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1976 Citroen CX will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Caterham C21 | 1976 Citroen CX | |
| Make | Caterham | Citroen |
| Model | C21 | CX |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2346 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 128 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 153 Nm | 197 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 93.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 85.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 654 kg | 1375 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2850 mm |
