1997 Caterham C21 vs. 2008 Nissan Micra
To start off, 2008 Nissan Micra 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 1,587 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Caterham C21 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Caterham C21 (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 2008 Nissan Micra. (87 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Caterham C21 should accelerate faster than 2008 Nissan Micra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Nissan Micra weights approximately 390 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 Nissan Micra, 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, 1997 Caterham C21 (145 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Nissan Micra. (128 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1997 Caterham C21 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Nissan Micra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Caterham C21 | 2008 Nissan Micra | |
| Make | Caterham | Nissan |
| Model | C21 | Micra |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 1386 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 87 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 128 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 82.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.9:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 650 kg | 1040 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 3720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2440 mm |
