2000 Caterham C21 vs. 2007 Mazda 3
To start off, 2007 Mazda 3 is newer by 7 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 2,261 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mazda 3 (256 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 141 more horse power than 2000 Caterham C21. (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2000 Caterham C21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mazda 3 weights approximately 838 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, 2007 Mazda 3, 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, 2007 Mazda 3 (380 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 235 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Caterham C21. (145 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2007 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Caterham C21.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Caterham C21 | 2007 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Caterham | Mazda |
| Model | C21 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2000 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2261 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 256 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 650 kg | 1488 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2650 mm |
