1997 Caterham C21 vs. 2003 Citroen C2
To start off, 2003 Citroen C2 is newer by 6 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 1,628 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Citroen C2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Caterham C21 (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 2003 Citroen C2. (108 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Caterham C21 should accelerate faster than 2003 Citroen C2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Citroen C2 weights approximately 400 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, 2003 Citroen C2, 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, 2003 Citroen C2 (152 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Caterham C21. (145 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Citroen C2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Caterham C21.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Caterham C21 | 2003 Citroen C2 | |
| Make | Caterham | Citroen |
| Model | C21 | C2 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 1628 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 152 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 78.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 650 kg | 1050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 3670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2320 mm |
