2000 Caterham C21 vs. 1998 Opel Meriva
To start off, 2000 Caterham C21 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Opel Meriva. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Opel Meriva would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Opel Meriva is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Opel Meriva (123 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 2000 Caterham C21. (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Opel Meriva should accelerate faster than 2000 Caterham C21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Opel Meriva weights approximately 730 kg more than 2000 Caterham C21. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2000 Caterham C21 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 C21. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Opel Meriva, 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, 1998 Opel Meriva (165 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Caterham C21. (145 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Opel Meriva will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Caterham C21.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Caterham C21 | 1998 Opel Meriva | |
| Make | Caterham | Opel |
| Model | C21 | Meriva |
| Year Released | 2000 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 650 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2610 mm |
