1997 Caterham C21 vs. 1988 Renault 25
To start off, 1997 Caterham C21 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Renault 25. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Renault 25 would be higher. At 2,847 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Renault 25 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Renault 25 (152 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1997 Caterham C21. (138 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Renault 25 should accelerate faster than 1997 Caterham C21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Renault 25 weights approximately 671 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 Renault 25, 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 Renault 25 (240 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 87 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Caterham C21. (153 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1988 Renault 25 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Caterham C21.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Caterham C21 | 1988 Renault 25 | |
| Make | Caterham | Renault |
| Model | C21 | 25 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2847 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 152 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 153 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 73 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 654 kg | 1325 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2730 mm |
