1997 Caterham C21 vs. 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser
To start off, 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser 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 2,429 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser (150 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1997 Caterham C21. (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1997 Caterham C21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 976 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 Chrysler PT Cruiser, 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 Chrysler PT Cruiser (224 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 79 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Caterham C21. (145 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Caterham C21.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Caterham C21 | 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser | |
| Make | Caterham | Chrysler |
| Model | C21 | PT Cruiser |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 2429 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 224 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 101 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 650 kg | 1626 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2620 mm |
