1997 Caterham C21 vs. 1966 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1997 Caterham C21 is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,587 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Caterham C21 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 115 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1966 Lotus Elan weights approximately 46 kg more than 1997 Caterham C21.
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, 1966 Lotus Elan (147 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Caterham C21. (145 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1966 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Caterham C21.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Caterham C21 | 1966 Lotus Elan | |
Make | Caterham | Lotus |
Model | C21 | Elan |
Year Released | 1997 | 1966 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1587 cc | 1557 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 115 HP | 115 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 145 Nm | 147 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 82.6 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 72.8 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 650 kg | 696 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 3700 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1430 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1180 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2140 mm |