1997 Caterham C21 vs. 2001 Opel Signum
To start off, 2001 Opel Signum is newer by 4 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 2,958 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Opel Signum is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Caterham C21 (250 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 2001 Opel Signum. (175 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Caterham C21 should accelerate faster than 2001 Opel Signum. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Opel Signum weights approximately 980 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, 2001 Opel Signum, 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, 2001 Opel Signum (370 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 118 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Caterham C21. (252 Nm @ 5750 RPM). This means 2001 Opel Signum will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Caterham C21. 2001 Opel Signum 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. 2001 Opel Signum will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Caterham C21 | 2001 Opel Signum | |
| Make | Caterham | Opel |
| Model | C21 | Signum |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2958 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 250 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 252 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5750 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 690 kg | 1670 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2710 mm |
