1997 Caterham C21 vs. 2006 Skoda Fabia
To start off, 2006 Skoda Fabia 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 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Skoda Fabia is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Caterham C21 (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 2006 Skoda Fabia. (63 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Caterham C21 should accelerate faster than 2006 Skoda Fabia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Skoda Fabia weights approximately 556 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 Skoda Fabia, 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, 1997 Caterham C21 (145 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Skoda Fabia. (125 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 1997 Caterham C21 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Skoda Fabia.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Caterham C21 | 2006 Skoda Fabia | |
| Make | Caterham | Skoda |
| Model | C21 | Fabia |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 63 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 19.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 650 kg | 1206 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 3970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2470 mm |
