1997 Caterham C21 vs. 2003 Mazda 6
To start off, 2003 Mazda 6 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 1,837 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mazda 6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Caterham C21 (138 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 2003 Mazda 6. (118 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Caterham C21 should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda 6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mazda 6 weights approximately 756 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 Mazda 6, 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 Mazda 6 (244 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 91 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Caterham C21. (153 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2003 Mazda 6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Caterham C21.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Caterham C21 | 2003 Mazda 6 | |
| Make | Caterham | Mazda |
| Model | C21 | 6 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1837 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 153 Nm | 244 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 654 kg | 1410 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2270 mm |
