1997 Caterham C21 vs. 2008 Honda Civic
To start off, 2008 Honda Civic 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 1,799 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Honda Civic is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Honda Civic (140 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1997 Caterham C21. (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Honda Civic should accelerate faster than 1997 Caterham C21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Honda Civic weights approximately 532 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, 2008 Honda Civic, 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 Honda Civic (174 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Caterham C21. (145 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Honda Civic will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Caterham C21.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Caterham C21 | 2008 Honda Civic | |
Make | Caterham | Honda |
Model | C21 | Civic |
Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1587 cc | 1799 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 115 HP | 140 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6300 RPM |
Torque | 145 Nm | 174 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4300 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 650 kg | 1182 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4490 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2710 mm |