1997 Caterham C21 vs. 1985 Holden Barina
To start off, 1997 Caterham C21 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Holden Barina. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Holden Barina 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 @ 7000 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 1985 Holden Barina. (59 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Caterham C21 should accelerate faster than 1985 Holden Barina. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Caterham C21 weights approximately 29 kg more than 1985 Holden Barina. 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, 1985 Holden Barina, 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 68 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Holden Barina. (85 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1997 Caterham C21 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Holden Barina. 1985 Holden Barina has automatic transmission and 1997 Caterham C21 has manual transmission. 1997 Caterham C21 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1985 Holden Barina will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Caterham C21 | 1985 Holden Barina | |
| Make | Caterham | Holden |
| Model | C21 | Barina |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 153 Nm | 85 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 654 kg | 625 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 3780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1550 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2250 mm |
