1997 Caterham C21 vs. 1980 Suzuki SJ 410
To start off, 1997 Caterham C21 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Suzuki SJ 410. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Suzuki SJ 410 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Caterham C21 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Caterham C21 (250 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 206 more horse power than 1980 Suzuki SJ 410. (44 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Caterham C21 should accelerate faster than 1980 Suzuki SJ 410. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Suzuki SJ 410 weights approximately 180 kg more than 1997 Caterham C21.
Because 1980 Suzuki SJ 410 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Caterham C21. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 Suzuki SJ 410 will offer significantly more control. 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, 1997 Caterham C21 (252 Nm @ 5750 RPM) has 178 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Suzuki SJ 410. (74 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 Caterham C21 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Suzuki SJ 410.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Caterham C21 | 1980 Suzuki SJ 410 | |
| Make | Caterham | Suzuki |
| Model | C21 | SJ 410 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 970 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 250 HP | 44 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 252 Nm | 74 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Vehicle Weight | 690 kg | 870 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 3450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1470 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1700 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2040 mm |
