1958 Alvis TD vs. 1997 Caterham C21
To start off, 1997 Caterham C21 is newer by 39 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 Alvis TD. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 Alvis TD would be higher. At 2,991 cc (6 cylinders), 1958 Alvis TD is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Caterham C21 (250 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 134 more horse power than 1958 Alvis TD. (116 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Caterham C21 should accelerate faster than 1958 Alvis TD. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1958 Alvis TD weights approximately 735 kg more than 1997 Caterham C21.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1997 Caterham C21 (252 Nm @ 5750 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 1958 Alvis TD. (221 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1997 Caterham C21 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1958 Alvis TD.
Compare all specifications:
| 1958 Alvis TD | 1997 Caterham C21 | |
| Make | Alvis | Caterham |
| Model | TD | C21 |
| Year Released | 1958 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2991 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 250 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 8000 RPM |
| Torque | 221 Nm | 252 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1425 kg | 690 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1060 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2260 mm |
