1997 Caterham C21 vs. 1999 Fiat Barchetta
To start off, 1999 Fiat Barchetta 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 1,747 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Fiat Barchetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Fiat Barchetta (129 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1997 Caterham C21. (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Fiat Barchetta should accelerate faster than 1997 Caterham C21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Fiat Barchetta weights approximately 410 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, 1999 Fiat Barchetta, 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, 1999 Fiat Barchetta (164 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Caterham C21. (145 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1999 Fiat Barchetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Caterham C21.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Caterham C21 | 1999 Fiat Barchetta | |
| Make | Caterham | Fiat |
| Model | C21 | Barchetta |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 1747 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 164 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 82.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 650 kg | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 3920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2280 mm |
