1997 Caterham C21 vs. 1990 Renault 21
To start off, 1997 Caterham C21 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Renault 21. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Renault 21 would be higher. At 1,721 cc (4 cylinders), 1990 Renault 21 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Caterham C21 (138 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 1990 Renault 21. (75 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Caterham C21 should accelerate faster than 1990 Renault 21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Renault 21 weights approximately 366 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, 1990 Renault 21, 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 (153 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Renault 21. (129 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 1997 Caterham C21 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Renault 21.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Caterham C21 | 1990 Renault 21 | |
Make | Caterham | Renault |
Model | C21 | 21 |
Year Released | 1997 | 1990 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1721 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 75 HP |
Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 153 Nm | 129 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3250 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 83.5 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.2:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 654 kg | 1020 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4650 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2820 mm |