1997 Caterham C21 vs. 1986 Subaru XT
To start off, 1997 Caterham C21 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Subaru XT. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Subaru XT would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Caterham C21 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Caterham C21 (250 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 116 more horse power than 1986 Subaru XT. (134 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Caterham C21 should accelerate faster than 1986 Subaru XT. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Subaru XT weights approximately 470 kg more than 1997 Caterham C21.
Because 1986 Subaru XT is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Caterham C21. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 Subaru XT will offer significantly more control. 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 56 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Subaru XT. (196 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1997 Caterham C21 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Subaru XT.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Caterham C21 | 1986 Subaru XT | |
| Make | Caterham | Subaru |
| Model | C21 | XT |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1779 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 250 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 252 Nm | 196 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5750 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 690 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2470 mm |
