1997 Caterham C21 vs. 1970 Mazda RX-2
To start off, 1997 Caterham C21 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Mazda RX-2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Mazda RX-2 would be higher. At 2,292 cc, 1970 Mazda RX-2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Caterham C21 (250 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 132 more horse power than 1970 Mazda RX-2. (118 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Caterham C21 should accelerate faster than 1970 Mazda RX-2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1970 Mazda RX-2 weights approximately 270 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, 1997 Caterham C21 (252 Nm @ 5750 RPM) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Mazda RX-2. (157 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1997 Caterham C21 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Mazda RX-2.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Caterham C21 | 1970 Mazda RX-2 | |
| Make | Caterham | Mazda |
| Model | C21 | RX-2 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1970 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2292 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 250 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 252 Nm | 157 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5750 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 690 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2480 mm |
