2000 Caterham 21 vs. 2005 Kia Opirus
To start off, 2005 Kia Opirus is newer by 5 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 3,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Kia Opirus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Caterham 21 (230 HP @ 8600 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 2005 Kia Opirus. (200 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2000 Caterham 21 should accelerate faster than 2005 Kia Opirus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Kia Opirus weights approximately 1357 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, 2005 Kia Opirus, 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, 2005 Kia Opirus (298 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 88 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Caterham 21. (210 Nm @ 7200 RPM). This means 2005 Kia Opirus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Caterham 21. 2005 Kia Opirus has automatic transmission and 2000 Caterham 21 has manual transmission. 2000 Caterham 21 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Kia Opirus will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Caterham 21 | 2005 Kia Opirus | |
| Make | Caterham | Kia |
| Model | 21 | Opirus |
| Year Released | 2000 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1794 cc | 3497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 230 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 298 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 7200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 241 km/hour | 215 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 540 kg | 1897 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 4990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1860 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 100 L | 70 L |
