1997 Caterham C21 vs. 2004 Holden Astra
To start off, 2004 Holden Astra 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 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Holden Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Caterham C21 (138 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 2004 Holden Astra. (124 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Caterham C21 should accelerate faster than 2004 Holden Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Holden Astra weights approximately 624 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 Holden Astra, 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 Holden Astra (173 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Caterham C21. (153 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2004 Holden Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Caterham C21.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Caterham C21 | 2004 Holden Astra | |
| Make | Caterham | Holden |
| Model | C21 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 124 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 153 Nm | 173 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 654 kg | 1278 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2620 mm |
