2009 Cadillac CTS vs. 1997 Caterham C21
To start off, 2009 Cadillac CTS is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Caterham C21. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Caterham C21 would be higher. At 3,599 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Cadillac CTS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Cadillac CTS (263 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 148 more horse power than 1997 Caterham C21. (115 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Cadillac CTS should accelerate faster than 1997 Caterham C21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Cadillac CTS weights approximately 985 kg more than 1997 Caterham C21. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Cadillac CTS is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Caterham C21. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Cadillac CTS will offer significantly more control. 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, 2009 Cadillac CTS (343 Nm @ 3100 RPM) has 198 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Caterham C21. (145 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Cadillac CTS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Caterham C21. 2009 Cadillac CTS has automatic transmission and 1997 Caterham C21 has manual transmission. 1997 Caterham C21 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Cadillac CTS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Cadillac CTS | 1997 Caterham C21 | |
| Make | Cadillac | Caterham |
| Model | CTS | C21 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3599 cc | 1587 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 263 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 343 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3100 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1635 kg | 650 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1060 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2260 mm |
