1995 Caterham 21 vs. 2004 Honda Element
To start off, 2004 Honda Element is newer by 9 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 2,354 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Honda Element is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Honda Element (160 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1995 Caterham 21. (138 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Honda Element should accelerate faster than 1995 Caterham 21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Honda Element weights approximately 907 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.
Because 1995 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 1995 Caterham 21. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Honda Element, 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, 2004 Honda Element (218 Nm) has 62 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 Caterham 21. (156 Nm). This means 2004 Honda Element will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 Caterham 21.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 Caterham 21 | 2004 Honda Element | |
| Make | Caterham | Honda |
| Model | 21 | Element |
| Year Released | 1995 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2354 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 156 Nm | 218 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 87.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 99 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 648 kg | 1555 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1070 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2750 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 60 L |
