1997 Caterham C21 vs. 1996 Saturn SC
To start off, 1997 Caterham C21 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Saturn SC. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Saturn SC would be higher. At 1,901 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Saturn SC is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Caterham C21 (138 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1996 Saturn SC. (101 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Caterham C21 should accelerate faster than 1996 Saturn SC. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Saturn SC weights approximately 391 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, 1996 Saturn SC, 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, 1996 Saturn SC (158 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Caterham C21. (153 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1996 Saturn SC will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Caterham C21. 1996 Saturn SC 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. 1996 Saturn SC will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Caterham C21 | 1996 Saturn SC | |
Make | Caterham | Saturn |
Model | C21 | SC |
Year Released | 1997 | 1996 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1901 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 101 HP |
Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 153 Nm | 158 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Vehicle Weight | 654 kg | 1045 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4580 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1360 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2610 mm |