1997 Caterham C21 vs. 2007 Chevrolet Equinox
To start off, 2007 Chevrolet Equinox is newer by 10 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 3,425 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 Chevrolet Equinox is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Chevrolet Equinox (185 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 1997 Caterham C21. (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Chevrolet Equinox should accelerate faster than 1997 Caterham C21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Chevrolet Equinox weights approximately 1710 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, 2007 Chevrolet Equinox, 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, 2007 Chevrolet Equinox (285 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 140 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Caterham C21. (145 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2007 Chevrolet Equinox will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Caterham C21. 2007 Chevrolet Equinox has automatic transmission and 1997 Caterham C21 has manual transmission. 1997 Caterham C21 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Chevrolet Equinox will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Caterham C21 | 2007 Chevrolet Equinox | |
| Make | Caterham | Chevrolet |
| Model | C21 | Equinox |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 3425 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 285 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 650 kg | 2360 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1710 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2860 mm |
