1997 Caterham C21 vs. 2007 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2007 Opel Vectra 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 3,175 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 Opel Vectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Opel Vectra (208 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 1997 Caterham C21. (138 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Opel Vectra should accelerate faster than 1997 Caterham C21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Opel Vectra weights approximately 869 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 Opel Vectra, 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 Opel Vectra (300 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 147 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Caterham C21. (153 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2007 Opel Vectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Caterham C21.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Caterham C21 | 2007 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | Caterham | Opel |
| Model | C21 | Vectra |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 3175 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 208 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 153 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 654 kg | 1523 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2710 mm |
