1997 Caterham C21 vs. 2009 Suzuki Equator
To start off, 2009 Suzuki Equator 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 2,501 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Suzuki Equator is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Suzuki Equator (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1997 Caterham C21. (138 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Suzuki Equator should accelerate faster than 1997 Caterham C21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Suzuki Equator weights approximately 321 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.
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, 2009 Suzuki Equator (171 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Caterham C21. (153 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2009 Suzuki Equator will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Caterham C21. 2009 Suzuki Equator 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 Suzuki Equator will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Caterham C21 | 2009 Suzuki Equator | |
| Make | Caterham | Suzuki |
| Model | C21 | Equator |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2501 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 153 Nm | 171 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 654 kg | 975 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 5250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 3200 mm |
