1997 Caterham C21 vs. 1975 Renault 15
To start off, 1997 Caterham C21 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Renault 15. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Renault 15 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 79 more horse power than 1975 Renault 15. (59 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Caterham C21 should accelerate faster than 1975 Renault 15. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1975 Renault 15 weights approximately 311 kg more than 1997 Caterham C21.
Let's talk about torque, 1997 Caterham C21 (153 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 54 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Renault 15. (99 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1997 Caterham C21 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Renault 15.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Caterham C21 | 1975 Renault 15 | |
| Make | Caterham | Renault |
| Model | C21 | 15 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1975 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 153 Nm | 99 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 69 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 654 kg | 965 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2440 mm |
