2000 Caterham C21 vs. 2013 Chevrolet Sonic
To start off, 2013 Chevrolet Sonic is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2000 Caterham C21. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2000 Caterham C21 would be higher. At 1,800 cc (4 cylinders), 2013 Chevrolet Sonic is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Chevrolet Sonic (134 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 2000 Caterham C21. (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Chevrolet Sonic should accelerate faster than 2000 Caterham C21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Chevrolet Sonic weights approximately 612 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, 2013 Chevrolet Sonic, 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, 2013 Chevrolet Sonic (169 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Caterham C21. (145 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2013 Chevrolet Sonic will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Caterham C21.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Caterham C21 | 2013 Chevrolet Sonic | |
| Make | Caterham | Chevrolet |
| Model | C21 | Sonic |
| Year Released | 2000 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 169 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 88 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 650 kg | 1262 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4039 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1735 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1517 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2525 mm |
