1997 Caterham C21 vs. 2008 Mazda 3
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 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 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1997 Caterham C21. (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1997 Caterham C21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda 3 weights approximately 679 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 Mazda 3, 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 Mazda 3 (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Caterham C21. (145 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Caterham C21.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Caterham C21 | 2008 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Caterham | Mazda |
| Model | C21 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 650 kg | 1329 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2650 mm |
