1997 Caterham C21 vs. 1988 Lancia Thema
To start off, 1997 Caterham C21 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Lancia Thema. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Lancia Thema would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Lancia Thema is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Lancia Thema (150 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1997 Caterham C21. (138 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Lancia Thema should accelerate faster than 1997 Caterham C21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Lancia Thema weights approximately 676 kg more than 1997 Caterham C21. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1988 Lancia Thema, 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, 1988 Lancia Thema (184 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Caterham C21. (153 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1988 Lancia Thema will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Caterham C21.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Caterham C21 | 1988 Lancia Thema | |
Make | Caterham | Lancia |
Model | C21 | Thema |
Year Released | 1997 | 1988 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1995 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 150 HP |
Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 153 Nm | 184 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 84.1 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 90 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.9:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 654 kg | 1330 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4600 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1450 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2670 mm |