1997 Caterham C21 vs. 2009 Chevrolet Equinox
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Equinox is newer by 12 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 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Chevrolet Equinox is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chevrolet Equinox (264 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1997 Caterham C21. (250 HP @ 8000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Equinox should accelerate faster than 1997 Caterham C21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chevrolet Equinox weights approximately 571 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 2009 Chevrolet Equinox is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Caterham C21. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Equinox will offer significantly more control. 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, 2009 Chevrolet Equinox (340 Nm @ 2300 RPM) has 88 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Caterham C21. (252 Nm @ 5750 RPM). This means 2009 Chevrolet Equinox will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Caterham C21. 2009 Chevrolet Equinox has automatic transmission and 1997 Caterham C21 has manual transmission. 1997 Caterham C21 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Chevrolet Equinox will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Caterham C21 | 2009 Chevrolet Equinox | |
| Make | Caterham | Chevrolet |
| Model | C21 | Equinox |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 250 HP | 264 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 252 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5750 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 690 kg | 1261 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1680 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2860 mm |
