1997 Caterham C21 vs. 2011 Suzuki SX4
To start off, 2011 Suzuki SX4 is newer by 14 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Suzuki SX4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Suzuki SX4 (150 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1997 Caterham C21. (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Suzuki SX4 should accelerate faster than 1997 Caterham C21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Suzuki SX4 weights approximately 590 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, 2011 Suzuki SX4, 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, 2011 Suzuki SX4 (190 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Caterham C21. (145 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2011 Suzuki SX4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Caterham C21.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Caterham C21 | 2011 Suzuki SX4 | |
| Make | Caterham | Suzuki |
| Model | C21 | SX4 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 650 kg | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4115 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1570 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2499 mm |
