1997 Caterham C21 vs. 1983 Renault 5
To start off, 1997 Caterham C21 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Renault 5. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Renault 5 would be higher. At 1,587 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Caterham C21 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Caterham C21 (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1983 Renault 5. (108 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Caterham C21 should accelerate faster than 1983 Renault 5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Renault 5 weights approximately 220 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 Renault 5, 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, 1983 Renault 5 (157 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Caterham C21. (145 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1983 Renault 5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Caterham C21.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Caterham C21 | 1983 Renault 5 | |
| Make | Caterham | Renault |
| Model | C21 | 5 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 1397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 157 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 76 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 77 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 650 kg | 870 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 3570 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1530 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2410 mm |
