1998 Caterham C21 vs. 1987 Holden Astra
To start off, 1998 Caterham C21 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Holden Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Holden Astra would be higher. At 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Caterham C21 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Caterham C21 (115 HP) has 45 more horse power than 1987 Holden Astra. (70 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Caterham C21 should accelerate faster than 1987 Holden Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Holden Astra weights approximately 205 kg more than 1998 Caterham C21.
Because 1998 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 1998 Caterham C21. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 Holden Astra, 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, 1998 Caterham C21 (146 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Holden Astra. (115 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1998 Caterham C21 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Holden Astra. 1987 Holden Astra has automatic transmission and 1998 Caterham C21 has manual transmission. 1998 Caterham C21 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1987 Holden Astra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Caterham C21 | 1987 Holden Astra | |
| Make | Caterham | Holden |
| Model | C21 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1987 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1488 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 70 HP |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 115 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 650 kg | 855 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 3970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2420 mm |
