1997 Caterham C21 vs. 2002 Citroen C3
To start off, 2002 Citroen C3 is newer by 5 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 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Caterham C21 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Caterham C21 (138 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 2002 Citroen C3. (89 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Caterham C21 should accelerate faster than 2002 Citroen C3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Citroen C3 weights approximately 498 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, 2002 Citroen C3, 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, 2002 Citroen C3 (200 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Caterham C21. (153 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2002 Citroen C3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Caterham C21.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Caterham C21 | 2002 Citroen C3 | |
| Make | Caterham | Citroen |
| Model | C21 | C3 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1398 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 153 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 73.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 654 kg | 1152 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 3860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1540 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2470 mm |
