1997 Caterham C21 vs. 1999 Kia Shuma
To start off, 1999 Kia Shuma 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 1,793 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Kia Shuma is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Caterham C21 (138 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 1999 Kia Shuma. (109 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Caterham C21 should accelerate faster than 1999 Kia Shuma. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Kia Shuma weights approximately 456 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 Kia Shuma, 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 Kia Shuma (155 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Caterham C21. (153 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1999 Kia Shuma will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Caterham C21.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Caterham C21 | 1999 Kia Shuma | |
| Make | Caterham | Kia |
| Model | C21 | Shuma |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1793 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 153 Nm | 155 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 654 kg | 1110 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2570 mm |
