1997 Caterham C21 vs. 1973 Nissan Skyline
To start off, 1997 Caterham C21 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Nissan Skyline. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Nissan Skyline would be higher. At 1,989 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 Nissan Skyline is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Nissan Skyline (135 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1997 Caterham C21. (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1973 Nissan Skyline should accelerate faster than 1997 Caterham C21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Nissan Skyline weights approximately 470 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 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, 1973 Nissan Skyline, 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, 1973 Nissan Skyline (180 Nm @ 5600 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Caterham C21. (145 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1973 Nissan Skyline will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Caterham C21.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Caterham C21 | 1973 Nissan Skyline | |
| Make | Caterham | Nissan |
| Model | C21 | Skyline |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 1989 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 650 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2650 mm |
