1997 Caterham C21 vs. 1971 Jensen Interceptor
To start off, 1997 Caterham C21 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Jensen Interceptor. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Jensen Interceptor would be higher. At 6,284 cc (8 cylinders), 1971 Jensen Interceptor is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Jensen Interceptor (300 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 162 more horse power than 1997 Caterham C21. (138 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1971 Jensen Interceptor should accelerate faster than 1997 Caterham C21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Jensen Interceptor weights approximately 1319 kg more than 1997 Caterham C21. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 Jensen Interceptor is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Caterham C21. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1971 Jensen Interceptor will offer significantly more control. 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, 1971 Jensen Interceptor (556 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 403 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Caterham C21. (153 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1971 Jensen Interceptor will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Caterham C21. 1971 Jensen Interceptor has automatic transmission and 1997 Caterham C21 has manual transmission. 1997 Caterham C21 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1971 Jensen Interceptor will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Caterham C21 | 1971 Jensen Interceptor | |
| Make | Caterham | Jensen |
| Model | C21 | Interceptor |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 6284 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 300 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 153 Nm | 556 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 108 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 85.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 654 kg | 1973 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2780 mm |
