1997 Caterham C21 vs. 1983 Ford Laser
To start off, 1997 Caterham C21 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Ford Laser. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Ford Laser 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 53 more horse power than 1983 Ford Laser. (85 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Caterham C21 should accelerate faster than 1983 Ford Laser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Ford Laser weights approximately 136 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, 1983 Ford Laser, 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 32 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Ford Laser. (121 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1997 Caterham C21 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Ford Laser. 1983 Ford Laser 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. 1983 Ford Laser will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Caterham C21 | 1983 Ford Laser | |
Make | Caterham | Ford |
Model | C21 | Laser |
Year Released | 1997 | 1983 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1490 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 85 HP |
Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 153 Nm | 121 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 654 kg | 790 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 3960 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1640 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1380 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2370 mm |