1997 Caterham C21 vs. 1992 Lancia Thema
To start off, 1997 Caterham C21 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1992 Lancia Thema. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1992 Lancia Thema would be higher. At 2,499 cc (4 cylinders), 1992 Lancia Thema is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Caterham C21 (250 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 134 more horse power than 1992 Lancia Thema. (116 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Caterham C21 should accelerate faster than 1992 Lancia Thema. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1992 Lancia Thema weights approximately 690 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, 1992 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, 1992 Lancia Thema (256 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Caterham C21. (252 Nm @ 5750 RPM). This means 1992 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 | 1992 Lancia Thema | |
| Make | Caterham | Lancia |
| Model | C21 | Thema |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1992 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2499 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 250 HP | 116 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8000 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Torque | 252 Nm | 256 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5750 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 690 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2670 mm |
