1998 Caterham C21 vs. 1994 Ford Tempo
To start off, 1998 Caterham C21 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1994 Ford Tempo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1994 Ford Tempo would be higher. At 2,307 cc (4 cylinders), 1994 Ford Tempo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Caterham C21 (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1994 Ford Tempo. (96 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Caterham C21 should accelerate faster than 1994 Ford Tempo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1994 Ford Tempo weights approximately 520 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, 1994 Ford Tempo, 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, 1994 Ford Tempo (171 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Caterham C21. (146 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1994 Ford Tempo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Caterham C21.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Caterham C21 | 1994 Ford Tempo | |
| Make | Caterham | Ford |
| Model | C21 | Tempo |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1994 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2307 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 96 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 171 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 93.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 84 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 650 kg | 1170 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2540 mm |
