1997 Caterham C21 vs. 2013 Chevrolet Malibu
To start off, 2013 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 16 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 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2013 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Chevrolet Malibu (180 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1997 Caterham C21. (138 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1997 Caterham C21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 988 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, 2013 Chevrolet Malibu, 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, 2013 Chevrolet Malibu (244 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 91 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Caterham C21. (153 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2013 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Caterham C21. 2013 Chevrolet Malibu 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. 2013 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Caterham C21 | 2013 Chevrolet Malibu | |
| Make | Caterham | Chevrolet |
| Model | C21 | Malibu |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 180 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 153 Nm | 244 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 98 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 654 kg | 1642 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4859 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1854 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1462 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2738 mm |
