1997 Caterham C21 vs. 1999 Fiat Punto
To start off, 1999 Fiat Punto 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 1,587 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Caterham C21 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Caterham C21 (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1999 Fiat Punto. (59 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Caterham C21 should accelerate faster than 1999 Fiat Punto. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Fiat Punto weights approximately 310 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 Fiat Punto, 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 (145 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Fiat Punto. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 Caterham C21 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Fiat Punto.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Caterham C21 | 1999 Fiat Punto | |
| Make | Caterham | Fiat |
| Model | C21 | Punto |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 1242 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 55.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 650 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 3770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2460 mm |
