2000 Caterham 21 vs. 2003 Opel Astra
To start off, 2003 Opel Astra is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2000 Caterham 21. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2000 Caterham 21 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Caterham 21 (230 HP @ 8600 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 2003 Opel Astra. (174 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2000 Caterham 21 should accelerate faster than 2003 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Astra weights approximately 870 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, 2003 Opel Astra, 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 Astra (251 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Caterham 21. (210 Nm @ 7200 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Caterham 21.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Caterham 21 | 2003 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Caterham | Opel |
| Model | 21 | Astra |
| Year Released | 2000 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1794 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 230 HP | 174 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 7200 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89.3 mm | 86 mm |
| Top Speed | 241 km/hour | 217 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 540 kg | 1410 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2740 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 100 L | 52 L |
