1998 Caterham C21 vs. 2003 Opel Meriva
To start off, 2003 Opel Meriva 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 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Opel Meriva is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Meriva (123 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1998 Caterham C21. (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Meriva should accelerate faster than 1998 Caterham C21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Meriva weights approximately 730 kg more than 1998 Caterham C21. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 Opel Meriva, 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, 2003 Opel Meriva (165 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Caterham C21. (146 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Meriva will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Caterham C21.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Caterham C21 | 2003 Opel Meriva | |
| Make | Caterham | Opel |
| Model | C21 | Meriva |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 650 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2640 mm |
