1998 Caterham C21 vs. 2005 Suzuki Alto
To start off, 2005 Suzuki Alto is newer by 7 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 64 more horse power than 2005 Suzuki Alto. (51 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Caterham C21 should accelerate faster than 2005 Suzuki Alto. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Caterham C21 weights approximately 10 kg more than 2005 Suzuki Alto. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Suzuki Alto is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Caterham C21. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Suzuki Alto will offer significantly more control. 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 90 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Suzuki Alto. (56 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1998 Caterham C21 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Suzuki Alto.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Caterham C21 | 2005 Suzuki Alto | |
| Make | Caterham | Suzuki |
| Model | C21 | Alto |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 657 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 51 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 56 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 65 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 66 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 650 kg | 640 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 3500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1500 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2340 mm |
