1997 Caterham C21 vs. 1999 Chevrolet Prizm
To start off, 1999 Chevrolet Prizm is newer by 2 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Caterham C21 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Caterham C21 (250 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 127 more horse power than 1999 Chevrolet Prizm. (123 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Caterham C21 should accelerate faster than 1999 Chevrolet Prizm. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Chevrolet Prizm weights approximately 402 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, 1999 Chevrolet Prizm, 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 (252 Nm @ 5750 RPM) has 83 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Chevrolet Prizm. (169 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Caterham C21 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Chevrolet Prizm. 1999 Chevrolet Prizm 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. 1999 Chevrolet Prizm will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Caterham C21 | 1999 Chevrolet Prizm | |
| Make | Caterham | Chevrolet |
| Model | C21 | Prizm |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1794 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 250 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 252 Nm | 169 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 690 kg | 1092 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2470 mm |
