1997 Caterham C21 vs. 2009 Hyundai Tucson
To start off, 2009 Hyundai Tucson 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 2,648 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Hyundai Tucson is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Hyundai Tucson (173 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 1997 Caterham C21. (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Hyundai Tucson should accelerate faster than 1997 Caterham C21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Hyundai Tucson weights approximately 469 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 1997 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 1997 Caterham C21. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Hyundai Tucson, 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, 2009 Hyundai Tucson (241 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 96 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Caterham C21. (145 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Hyundai Tucson will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Caterham C21. 2009 Hyundai Tucson 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 Hyundai Tucson will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Caterham C21 | 2009 Hyundai Tucson | |
| Make | Caterham | Hyundai |
| Model | C21 | Tucson |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 2648 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 173 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 241 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 75.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 650 kg | 1119 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4330 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2640 mm |
