1997 Caterham C21 vs. 2005 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2005 Opel Vectra 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 1,909 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Opel Vectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Opel Vectra (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1997 Caterham C21. (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Opel Vectra should accelerate faster than 1997 Caterham C21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Opel Vectra weights approximately 550 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, 2005 Opel Vectra, 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 Vectra (321 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 176 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Caterham C21. (145 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Opel Vectra 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 Vectra | |
| Make | Caterham | Opel |
| Model | C21 | Vectra |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 1909 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 321 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 90.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 650 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2640 mm |
