1997 Caterham C21 vs. 2004 Citroen Xsara
To start off, 2004 Citroen Xsara is newer by 7 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Caterham C21 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Caterham C21 (250 HP) has 156 more horse power than 2004 Citroen Xsara. (94 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Caterham C21 should accelerate faster than 2004 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 630 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, 2004 Citroen Xsara, 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 117 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Citroen Xsara. (135 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 Caterham C21 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Citroen Xsara.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Caterham C21 | 2004 Citroen Xsara | |
| Make | Caterham | Citroen |
| Model | C21 | Xsara |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1587 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 250 HP | 94 HP |
| Torque | 252 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 690 kg | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1640 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2770 mm |
