1997 Caterham C21 vs. 2003 Vauxhall Signum
To start off, 2003 Vauxhall Signum 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 2,198 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Vauxhall Signum is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Caterham C21 (250 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 97 more horse power than 2003 Vauxhall Signum. (153 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Caterham C21 should accelerate faster than 2003 Vauxhall Signum. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Vauxhall Signum weights approximately 760 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 Vauxhall 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, 1997 Caterham C21 (252 Nm @ 5750 RPM) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Vauxhall Signum. (220 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1997 Caterham C21 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Vauxhall Signum.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Caterham C21 | 2003 Vauxhall Signum | |
| Make | Caterham | Vauxhall |
| Model | C21 | Signum |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2198 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 250 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 252 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5750 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 690 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2840 mm |
