1997 Caterham C21 vs. 2009 Chevrolet Traverse
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Traverse 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 3,599 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Chevrolet Traverse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chevrolet Traverse (288 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 173 more horse power than 1997 Caterham C21. (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Traverse should accelerate faster than 1997 Caterham C21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chevrolet Traverse weights approximately 611 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, 2009 Chevrolet Traverse, 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, 2009 Chevrolet Traverse (366 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 221 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Caterham C21. (145 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Chevrolet Traverse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Caterham C21. 2009 Chevrolet Traverse 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 Traverse will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Caterham C21 | 2009 Chevrolet Traverse | |
| Make | Caterham | Chevrolet |
| Model | C21 | Traverse |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 3599 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 288 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 366 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 650 kg | 1261 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 5210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 2000 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 3030 mm |
