1997 Caterham C21 vs. 1983 Ford Orion
To start off, 1997 Caterham C21 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Ford Orion. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Ford Orion 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 181 more horse power than 1983 Ford Orion. (69 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Caterham C21 should accelerate faster than 1983 Ford Orion. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Ford Orion weights approximately 186 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, 1983 Ford Orion, 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 152 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Ford Orion. (100 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1997 Caterham C21 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Ford Orion.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Caterham C21 | 1983 Ford Orion | |
| Make | Caterham | Ford |
| Model | C21 | Orion |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 250 HP | 69 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 252 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5750 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 690 kg | 876 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2410 mm |
