1997 Caterham C21 vs. 1976 Chrysler 1609
To start off, 1997 Caterham C21 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Chrysler 1609. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Chrysler 1609 would be higher. At 1,980 cc (4 cylinders), 1976 Chrysler 1609 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Caterham C21 (138 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1976 Chrysler 1609. (108 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Caterham C21 should accelerate faster than 1976 Chrysler 1609. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Chrysler 1609 weights approximately 471 kg more than 1997 Caterham C21.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1976 Chrysler 1609 (159 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Caterham C21. (153 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1976 Chrysler 1609 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Caterham C21. 1976 Chrysler 1609 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. 1976 Chrysler 1609 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Caterham C21 | 1976 Chrysler 1609 | |
Make | Caterham | Chrysler |
Model | C21 | 1609 |
Year Released | 1997 | 1976 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1980 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 108 HP |
Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 153 Nm | 159 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3400 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 91.7 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 75 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 654 kg | 1125 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4530 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1450 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2680 mm |