1997 Caterham C21 vs. 1983 Peugeot 205
To start off, 1997 Caterham C21 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Peugeot 205. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Peugeot 205 would be higher. At 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Caterham C21 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Caterham C21 (138 HP) has 58 more horse power than 1983 Peugeot 205. (80 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Caterham C21 should accelerate faster than 1983 Peugeot 205. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Peugeot 205 weights approximately 156 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 Peugeot 205, 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 (153 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Peugeot 205. (109 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1997 Caterham C21 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Peugeot 205.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Caterham C21 | 1983 Peugeot 205 | |
| Make | Caterham | Peugeot |
| Model | C21 | 205 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1360 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 80 HP |
| Torque | 153 Nm | 109 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 75.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 654 kg | 810 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 3710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2430 mm |
