1997 Caterham C21 vs. 2003 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2003 Opel Vectra 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 1,795 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Opel Vectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Vectra (120 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1997 Caterham C21. (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Vectra should accelerate faster than 1997 Caterham C21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Vectra weights approximately 840 kg more than 1997 Caterham C21. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 Opel Vectra, 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 Opel Vectra (170 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Caterham C21. (145 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Vectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Caterham C21.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Caterham C21 | 2003 Opel Vectra | |
Make | Caterham | Opel |
Model | C21 | Vectra |
Year Released | 1997 | 2003 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1587 cc | 1795 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 115 HP | 120 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 145 Nm | 170 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 80.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 88.2 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 650 kg | 1490 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4500 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1710 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2640 mm |