1997 Caterham C21 vs. 2004 Dodge Neon
To start off, 2004 Dodge Neon 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 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Dodge Neon is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Caterham C21 (138 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 2004 Dodge Neon. (132 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Caterham C21 should accelerate faster than 2004 Dodge Neon. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Dodge Neon weights approximately 537 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 Dodge Neon, 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, 2004 Dodge Neon (176 Nm) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Caterham C21. (153 Nm). This means 2004 Dodge Neon will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Caterham C21.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Caterham C21 | 2004 Dodge Neon | |
| Make | Caterham | Dodge |
| Model | C21 | Neon |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 132 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 153 Nm | 176 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 87.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 654 kg | 1191 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2670 mm |
