1997 Caterham C21 vs. 2004 Ford Focus
To start off, 2004 Ford Focus 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 1,983 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Focus (212 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1997 Caterham C21. (138 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1997 Caterham C21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Focus weights approximately 626 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, 2004 Ford Focus, 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 Ford Focus (310 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 157 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Caterham C21. (153 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2004 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Caterham C21.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Caterham C21 | 2004 Ford Focus | |
Make | Caterham | Ford |
Model | C21 | Focus |
Year Released | 1997 | 2004 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1983 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 212 HP |
Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 153 Nm | 310 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 8.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 654 kg | 1280 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4190 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1780 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2630 mm |