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 1,996 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1997 Caterham C21. (138 HP @ 7000 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 577 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 (182 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Caterham C21. (153 Nm @ 5000 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 | 1588 cc | 1996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 153 Nm | 182 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 654 kg | 1231 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2650 mm |
