2000 Caterham 21 vs. 1998 Oldsmobile Alero
To start off, 2000 Caterham 21 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Oldsmobile Alero. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Oldsmobile Alero would be higher. At 2,390 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Oldsmobile Alero is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Caterham 21 (230 HP @ 8600 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 1998 Oldsmobile Alero. (148 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2000 Caterham 21 should accelerate faster than 1998 Oldsmobile Alero. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Oldsmobile Alero weights approximately 830 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, 1998 Oldsmobile Alero, 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, both vehicles can yield 210 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Caterham 21 | 1998 Oldsmobile Alero | |
| Make | Caterham | Oldsmobile |
| Model | 21 | Alero |
| Year Released | 2000 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1794 cc | 2390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 230 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 7200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 540 kg | 1370 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2720 mm |
