1997 Caterham C21 vs. 1995 Ford Escort

To start off, 1997 Caterham C21 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 Ford Escort 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 1995 Ford Escort. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Caterham C21 should accelerate faster than 1995 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 Ford Escort weights approximately 451 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, 1995 Ford Escort, 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 53 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 Ford Escort. (100 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1997 Caterham C21 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 Ford Escort.

Compare all specifications:

1997 Caterham C21 1995 Ford Escort
Make Caterham Ford
Model C21 Escort
Year Released 1997 1995
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1588 cc 1299 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 138 HP 59 HP
Engine RPM 7000 RPM 5000 RPM
Torque 153 Nm 100 Nm
Torque RPM 5000 RPM 2500 RPM
Engine Bore Size 80 mm 74 mm
Engine Stroke Size 79 mm 75 mm
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Number of Seats 2 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 654 kg 1105 kg
Vehicle Length 3810 mm 4240 mm
Vehicle Width 1590 mm 1690 mm
Wheelbase Size 2260 mm 2530 mm