1997 Caterham C21 vs. 1999 Honda Civic
To start off, 1999 Honda Civic 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, 1999 Honda Civic (160 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1997 Caterham C21. (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Honda Civic should accelerate faster than 1997 Caterham C21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Honda Civic weights approximately 190 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 Honda Civic, 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 Honda Civic (152 Nm) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Caterham C21. (145 Nm). This means 1999 Honda Civic will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Caterham C21.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Caterham C21 | 1999 Honda Civic | |
| Make | Caterham | Honda |
| Model | C21 | Civic |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 1000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 152 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 650 kg | 840 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1710 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2630 mm |
