1997 Caterham C21 vs. 2005 Opel Meriva
To start off, 2005 Opel Meriva 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 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Opel Meriva is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Caterham C21 (138 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 2005 Opel Meriva. (124 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Caterham C21 should accelerate faster than 2005 Opel Meriva. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Opel Meriva weights approximately 739 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, 2005 Opel Meriva, 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, 2005 Opel Meriva (167 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Caterham C21. (153 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2005 Opel Meriva will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Caterham C21.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Caterham C21 | 2005 Opel Meriva | |
| Make | Caterham | Opel |
| Model | C21 | Meriva |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2005 |
| 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 | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 153 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 80.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 88.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 654 kg | 1393 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2530 mm |
