1997 Caterham C21 vs. 1976 Datsun Violet
To start off, 1997 Caterham C21 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Datsun Violet. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Datsun Violet would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Caterham C21 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Caterham C21 (250 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 188 more horse power than 1976 Datsun Violet. (62 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Caterham C21 should accelerate faster than 1976 Datsun Violet. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Datsun Violet weights approximately 210 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, 1997 Caterham C21 (252 Nm @ 5750 RPM) has 153 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Datsun Violet. (99 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1997 Caterham C21 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Datsun Violet.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Caterham C21 | 1976 Datsun Violet | |
| Make | Caterham | Datsun |
| Model | C21 | Violet |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 250 HP | 62 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 252 Nm | 99 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5750 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 690 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1610 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2410 mm |
