1997 Caterham C21 vs. 1984 Oldsmobile Cutlass
To start off, 1997 Caterham C21 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Oldsmobile Cutlass. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Oldsmobile Cutlass would be higher. At 2,966 cc (6 cylinders), 1984 Oldsmobile Cutlass is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Caterham C21 (250 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 126 more horse power than 1984 Oldsmobile Cutlass. (124 HP @ 4900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Caterham C21 should accelerate faster than 1984 Oldsmobile Cutlass. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1984 Oldsmobile Cutlass weights approximately 520 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, 1984 Oldsmobile Cutlass, 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 (252 Nm @ 5750 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Oldsmobile Cutlass. (203 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1997 Caterham C21 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Oldsmobile Cutlass. 1984 Oldsmobile Cutlass 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. 1984 Oldsmobile Cutlass will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Caterham C21 | 1984 Oldsmobile Cutlass | |
| Make | Caterham | Oldsmobile |
| Model | C21 | Cutlass |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1984 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 250 HP | 124 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8000 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Torque | 252 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5750 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 690 kg | 1210 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2640 mm |
