1997 Caterham C21 vs. 1981 Subaru Coupe
To start off, 1997 Caterham C21 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Subaru Coupe. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Subaru Coupe would be higher. At 1,593 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Subaru Coupe is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Caterham C21 (138 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 71 more horse power than 1981 Subaru Coupe. (67 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Caterham C21 should accelerate faster than 1981 Subaru Coupe. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Subaru Coupe weights approximately 261 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, 1981 Subaru Coupe, 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 39 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Subaru Coupe. (114 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1997 Caterham C21 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Subaru Coupe.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Caterham C21 | 1981 Subaru Coupe | |
| Make | Caterham | Subaru |
| Model | C21 | Coupe |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1593 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 67 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 153 Nm | 114 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 91.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 60 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 654 kg | 915 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2470 mm |
