1997 Caterham C21 vs. 1984 Suzuki Alto
To start off, 1997 Caterham C21 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Suzuki Alto. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Suzuki Alto would be higher. At 1,587 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Caterham C21 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Caterham C21 (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 1984 Suzuki Alto. (38 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Caterham C21 should accelerate faster than 1984 Suzuki Alto. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Caterham C21 weights approximately 40 kg more than 1984 Suzuki Alto. 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, 1984 Suzuki Alto, 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 (145 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 86 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Suzuki Alto. (59 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 Caterham C21 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Suzuki Alto.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Caterham C21 | 1984 Suzuki Alto | |
| Make | Caterham | Suzuki |
| Model | C21 | Alto |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1984 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 38 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 59 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 68.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 650 kg | 610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 3300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1410 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2160 mm |
