1997 Caterham C21 vs. 2008 Opel Astra
To start off, 2008 Opel Astra 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 1,596 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Caterham C21 (138 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 2008 Opel Astra. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Caterham C21 should accelerate faster than 2008 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Opel Astra weights approximately 861 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 Opel Astra, 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 (153 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Opel Astra. (150 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 1997 Caterham C21 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Caterham C21 | 2008 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Caterham | Opel |
| Model | C21 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 153 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 81.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 654 kg | 1515 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 2030 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1840 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2620 mm |
