1997 Caterham C21 vs. 1987 Citroen BX
To start off, 1997 Caterham C21 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Citroen BX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Citroen BX would be higher. At 1,905 cc (4 cylinders), 1987 Citroen BX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Citroen BX (160 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1997 Caterham C21. (138 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1987 Citroen BX should accelerate faster than 1997 Caterham C21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Citroen BX weights approximately 419 kg more than 1997 Caterham C21. 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, 1987 Citroen BX, 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, 1987 Citroen BX (180 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Caterham C21. (153 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1987 Citroen BX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Caterham C21.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Caterham C21 | 1987 Citroen BX | |
| Make | Caterham | Citroen |
| Model | C21 | BX |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1987 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1905 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 153 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 654 kg | 1073 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2660 mm |
