1998 Caterham C21 vs. 2003 Holden Barina
To start off, 2003 Holden Barina is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Caterham C21. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Caterham C21 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 @ 6000 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 2003 Holden Barina. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Caterham C21 should accelerate faster than 2003 Holden Barina. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Holden Barina weights approximately 410 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, 2003 Holden Barina, 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 26 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Holden Barina. (120 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 Caterham C21 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Holden Barina. 2003 Holden Barina 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. 2003 Holden Barina will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Caterham C21 | 2003 Holden Barina | |
| Make | Caterham | Holden |
| Model | C21 | Barina |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1387 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 120 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 650 kg | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 3820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2500 mm |
