1997 Caterham C21 vs. 2007 Mazda CX-9
To start off, 2007 Mazda CX-9 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 3,496 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 Mazda CX-9 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mazda CX-9 (263 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 148 more horse power than 1997 Caterham C21. (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mazda CX-9 should accelerate faster than 1997 Caterham C21.
Because 2007 Mazda CX-9 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Caterham C21. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 Mazda CX-9 will offer significantly more control. 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 Mazda CX-9 (338 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 193 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Caterham C21. (145 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2007 Mazda CX-9 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Caterham C21. 2007 Mazda CX-9 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 Mazda CX-9 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Caterham C21 | 2007 Mazda CX-9 | |
| Make | Caterham | Mazda |
| Model | C21 | CX-9 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 3496 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 263 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 338 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 5080 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1940 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2880 mm |
