1997 Caterham C21 vs. 2006 Opel Astra
To start off, 2006 Opel Astra is newer by 9 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 1,795 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 138 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Opel Astra weights approximately 861 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, 2006 Opel 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, 2006 Opel Astra (175 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Caterham C21. (153 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2006 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Caterham C21.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Caterham C21 | 2006 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Caterham | Opel |
| Model | C21 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1795 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 153 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 80.6 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 |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 654 kg | 1515 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 2030 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2620 mm |
