1997 Caterham C21 vs. 1975 Lancia Beta
To start off, 1997 Caterham C21 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Lancia Beta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Lancia Beta would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1975 Lancia Beta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1975 Lancia Beta (119 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1997 Caterham C21. (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1975 Lancia Beta should accelerate faster than 1997 Caterham C21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1975 Lancia Beta weights approximately 390 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, 1975 Lancia Beta, 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, 1975 Lancia Beta (176 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Caterham C21. (145 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1975 Lancia Beta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Caterham C21.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Caterham C21 | 1975 Lancia Beta | |
| Make | Caterham | Lancia |
| Model | C21 | Beta |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1975 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 119 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 176 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 650 kg | 1040 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1260 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2360 mm |
