1997 Caterham C21 vs. 2009 Smart ForTwo
To start off, 2009 Smart ForTwo 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 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Caterham C21 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Caterham C21 (138 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 2009 Smart ForTwo. (83 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Caterham C21 should accelerate faster than 2009 Smart ForTwo.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 32 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Smart ForTwo. (121 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 1997 Caterham C21 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Smart ForTwo.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Caterham C21 | 2009 Smart ForTwo | |
Make | Caterham | Smart |
Model | C21 | ForTwo |
Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
Engine Position | Front | Rear |
Engine Size | 1588 cc | 999 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 83 HP |
Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
Torque | 153 Nm | 121 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3250 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 72.1 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 81.8 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 2700 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1550 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1570 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 1870 mm |