1997 Caterham C21 vs. 2005 Mazda AZ
To start off, 2005 Mazda AZ is newer by 8 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 1,587 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Caterham C21 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Caterham C21 (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 2005 Mazda AZ. (63 HP @ 6250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Caterham C21 should accelerate faster than 2005 Mazda AZ. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda AZ weights approximately 110 kg more than 1997 Caterham C21.
Because 2005 Mazda AZ is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Caterham C21. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Mazda AZ will offer significantly more control. 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 (145 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda AZ. (106 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1997 Caterham C21 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mazda AZ.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Caterham C21 | 2005 Mazda AZ | |
| Make | Caterham | Mazda |
| Model | C21 | AZ |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 656 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 63 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 106 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 68 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 60.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 8.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 650 kg | 760 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 3400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1480 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1700 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2260 mm |
