1997 Caterham C21 vs. 2012 Suzuki Jimny
To start off, 2012 Suzuki Jimny is newer by 15 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 1,587 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Caterham C21 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Caterham C21 (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 2012 Suzuki Jimny. (85 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Caterham C21 should accelerate faster than 2012 Suzuki Jimny.
Because 2012 Suzuki Jimny 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, 2012 Suzuki Jimny 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, 1997 Caterham C21 (145 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Suzuki Jimny. (110 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 1997 Caterham C21 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Suzuki Jimny.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Caterham C21 | 2012 Suzuki Jimny | |
| Make | Caterham | Suzuki |
| Model | C21 | Jimny |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 1328 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 69.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 3650 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2260 mm |
