1997 Caterham C21 vs. 1964 DKW F 102
To start off, 1997 Caterham C21 is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1964 DKW F 102. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1964 DKW F 102 would be higher. At 1,587 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Caterham C21 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Caterham C21 (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1964 DKW F 102. (59 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Caterham C21 should accelerate faster than 1964 DKW F 102. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1964 DKW F 102 weights approximately 260 kg more than 1997 Caterham C21.
Because 1997 Caterham C21 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 1997 Caterham C21. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1964 DKW F 102, 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, 1997 Caterham C21 (145 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 1964 DKW F 102. (103 Nm @ 2250 RPM). This means 1997 Caterham C21 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1964 DKW F 102.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Caterham C21 | 1964 DKW F 102 | |
| Make | Caterham | DKW |
| Model | C21 | F 102 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1964 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 1175 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 103 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 85.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 68 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 650 kg | 910 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2490 mm |
