1997 Caterham C21 vs. 1975 Honda 1300
To start off, 1997 Caterham C21 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Honda 1300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Honda 1300 would be higher. At 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Caterham C21 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Caterham C21 (138 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 1975 Honda 1300. (81 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Caterham C21 should accelerate faster than 1975 Honda 1300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1975 Honda 1300 weights approximately 241 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, 1975 Honda 1300, 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 (153 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Honda 1300. (105 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Caterham C21 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Honda 1300.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Caterham C21 | 1975 Honda 1300 | |
| Make | Caterham | Honda |
| Model | C21 | 1300 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1975 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1296 cc |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 153 Nm | 105 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 654 kg | 895 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1510 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2200 mm |
