1997 Caterham C21 vs. 2000 Kia Sephia II
To start off, 2000 Kia Sephia II is newer by 3 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 1,594 cc (4 cylinders), 2000 Kia Sephia II is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Caterham C21 (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 2000 Kia Sephia II. (100 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Caterham C21 should accelerate faster than 2000 Kia Sephia II. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Kia Sephia II weights approximately 412 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, 2000 Kia Sephia II, 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, both vehicles can yield 145 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 2000 Kia Sephia II 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. 2000 Kia Sephia II will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Caterham C21 | 2000 Kia Sephia II | |
| Make | Caterham | Kia |
| Model | C21 | Sephia II |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2000 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 1594 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 83.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 650 kg | 1062 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2570 mm |
