1997 Caterham C21 vs. 1986 Peugeot 309
To start off, 1997 Caterham C21 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Peugeot 309. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Peugeot 309 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 23 more horse power than 1986 Peugeot 309. (115 HP @ 6250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Caterham C21 should accelerate faster than 1986 Peugeot 309. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Peugeot 309 weights approximately 276 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, 1986 Peugeot 309, 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 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Peugeot 309. (133 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Caterham C21 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Peugeot 309.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Caterham C21 | 1986 Peugeot 309 | |
| Make | Caterham | Peugeot |
| Model | C21 | 309 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1580 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 153 Nm | 133 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 654 kg | 930 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2480 mm |
