1983 Austin Maestro vs. 2000 Caterham 21
To start off, 2000 Caterham 21 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Austin Maestro. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Austin Maestro would be higher. At 1,794 cc (4 cylinders), 2000 Caterham 21 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Caterham 21 (230 HP @ 8600 RPM) has 144 more horse power than 1983 Austin Maestro. (86 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2000 Caterham 21 should accelerate faster than 1983 Austin Maestro. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Austin Maestro weights approximately 444 kg more than 2000 Caterham 21.
Because 2000 Caterham 21 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 21. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 Austin Maestro, 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, 2000 Caterham 21 (210 Nm @ 7200 RPM) has 87 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Austin Maestro. (123 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2000 Caterham 21 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Austin Maestro. 1983 Austin Maestro has automatic transmission and 2000 Caterham 21 has manual transmission. 2000 Caterham 21 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1983 Austin Maestro will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Austin Maestro | 2000 Caterham 21 | |
| Make | Austin | Caterham |
| Model | Maestro | 21 |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2000 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1794 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 230 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 8600 RPM |
| Torque | 123 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 7200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.2 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87.6 mm | 89.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 11.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 984 kg | 540 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 3860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1590 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2230 mm |
