2000 Caterham 21 vs. 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier
To start off, 2000 Caterham 21 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier would be higher. At 2,189 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Caterham 21 (230 HP @ 8600 RPM) has 110 more horse power than 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier. (120 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2000 Caterham 21 should accelerate faster than 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier weights approximately 651 kg more than 2000 Caterham 21.
Because 2000 Caterham 21 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 2000 Caterham 21. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier, 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, 2000 Caterham 21 (210 Nm @ 7200 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier. (183 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2000 Caterham 21 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Caterham 21 | 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier | |
| Make | Caterham | Chevrolet |
| Model | 21 | Cavalier |
| Year Released | 2000 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1794 cc | 2189 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 230 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 7200 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89.3 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 540 kg | 1191 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1730 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 100 L | 57 L |
