1995 Caterham 21 vs. 1999 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 1999 Lotus Esprit is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 Caterham 21. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 Caterham 21 would be higher. At 3,506 cc (8 cylinders), 1999 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Lotus Esprit (349 HP) has 211 more horse power than 1995 Caterham 21. (138 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1995 Caterham 21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Lotus Esprit weights approximately 27 kg more than 1995 Caterham 21. 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, 1999 Lotus Esprit (351 Nm) has 195 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 Caterham 21. (156 Nm). This means 1999 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 Caterham 21.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 Caterham 21 | 1999 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Caterham | Lotus |
| Model | 21 | Esprit |
| Year Released | 1995 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 3506 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 349 HP |
| Torque | 156 Nm | 351 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 211 km/hour | 276 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 648 kg | 675 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1990 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1070 mm | 1150 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2310 mm |
