1961 Austin A 60 vs. 1997 Caterham C21
To start off, 1997 Caterham C21 is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Austin A 60. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Austin A 60 would be higher. At 1,621 cc (4 cylinders), 1961 Austin A 60 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Caterham C21 (115 HP) has 55 more horse power than 1961 Austin A 60. (60 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Caterham C21 should accelerate faster than 1961 Austin A 60. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 Austin A 60 weights approximately 470 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 (145 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Austin A 60. (122 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1997 Caterham C21 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Austin A 60.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Austin A 60 | 1997 Caterham C21 | |
| Make | Austin | Caterham |
| Model | A 60 | C21 |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1621 cc | 1587 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 60 HP | 115 HP |
| Torque | 122 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.2 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.9 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 650 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1060 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2260 mm |
