1971 AC 428 vs. 1997 Caterham C21
To start off, 1997 Caterham C21 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 AC 428. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 AC 428 would be higher. At 7,003 cc (8 cylinders), 1971 AC 428 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 AC 428 (298 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 160 more horse power than 1997 Caterham C21. (138 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 AC 428 should accelerate faster than 1997 Caterham C21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 AC 428 weights approximately 776 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.
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, 1971 AC 428 (639 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 486 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Caterham C21. (153 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1971 AC 428 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Caterham C21.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 AC 428 | 1997 Caterham C21 | |
| Make | AC | Caterham |
| Model | 428 | C21 |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 7003 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 298 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 639 Nm | 153 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 654 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1060 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2260 mm |
