1997 Caterham C21 vs. 1982 Renault 9
To start off, 1997 Caterham C21 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Renault 9. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Renault 9 would be higher. At 1,595 cc (4 cylinders), 1982 Renault 9 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Caterham C21 (138 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 83 more horse power than 1982 Renault 9. (55 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Caterham C21 should accelerate faster than 1982 Renault 9. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1982 Renault 9 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, 1982 Renault 9, 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 49 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Renault 9. (104 Nm @ 2250 RPM). This means 1997 Caterham C21 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Renault 9.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Caterham C21 | 1982 Renault 9 | |
| Make | Caterham | Renault |
| Model | C21 | 9 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1982 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 55 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 153 Nm | 104 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 22.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| 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 | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2410 mm |
