1997 Caterham C21 vs. 1998 Opel Meriva
To start off, 1998 Opel Meriva is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Caterham C21. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Caterham C21 would be higher. At 1,686 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Opel Meriva is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Caterham C21 (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 1998 Opel Meriva. (74 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Caterham C21 should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Meriva. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Opel Meriva weights approximately 743 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, 1998 Opel Meriva, 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, 1998 Opel Meriva (185 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Caterham C21. (145 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Opel Meriva will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Caterham C21.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Caterham C21 | 1998 Opel Meriva | |
| Make | Caterham | Opel |
| Model | C21 | Meriva |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 1686 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 185 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 18.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 650 kg | 1393 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2620 mm |
