1997 Caterham C21 vs. 2008 Ford Mondeo
To start off, 2008 Ford Mondeo is newer by 11 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 1,797 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Ford Mondeo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Caterham C21 (138 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 2008 Ford Mondeo. (128 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Caterham C21 should accelerate faster than 2008 Ford Mondeo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Ford Mondeo weights approximately 815 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, 2008 Ford Mondeo, 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, 2008 Ford Mondeo (175 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Caterham C21. (153 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Mondeo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Caterham C21.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Caterham C21 | 2008 Ford Mondeo | |
| Make | Caterham | Ford |
| Model | C21 | Mondeo |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1797 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 128 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 153 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 654 kg | 1469 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2760 mm |
