1997 Caterham C21 vs. 1981 Suzuki Fronte
To start off, 1997 Caterham C21 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Suzuki Fronte. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Suzuki Fronte 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 221 more horse power than 1981 Suzuki Fronte. (29 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Caterham C21 should accelerate faster than 1981 Suzuki Fronte. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Caterham C21 weights approximately 135 kg more than 1981 Suzuki Fronte. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1981 Suzuki Fronte, 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, 1997 Caterham C21 (252 Nm @ 5750 RPM) has 211 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Suzuki Fronte. (41 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Caterham C21 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Suzuki Fronte.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Caterham C21 | 1981 Suzuki Fronte | |
| Make | Caterham | Suzuki |
| Model | C21 | Fronte |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 543 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 250 HP | 29 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 252 Nm | 41 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 690 kg | 555 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 3200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1400 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2160 mm |
