1997 Caterham C21 vs. 2013 Chevrolet Sonic
To start off, 2013 Chevrolet Sonic 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Caterham C21 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Caterham C21 (250 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 116 more horse power than 2013 Chevrolet Sonic. (134 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Caterham C21 should accelerate faster than 2013 Chevrolet Sonic. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Chevrolet Sonic weights approximately 547 kg more than 1997 Caterham C21.
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 Sonic, 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, 1997 Caterham C21 (252 Nm @ 5750 RPM) has 83 more torque (in Nm) than 2013 Chevrolet Sonic. (169 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1997 Caterham C21 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2013 Chevrolet Sonic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Caterham C21 | 2013 Chevrolet Sonic | |
| Make | Caterham | Chevrolet |
| Model | C21 | Sonic |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 250 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8000 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 252 Nm | 169 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5750 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 690 kg | 1237 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1735 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1517 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2685 mm |
