1997 Caterham C21 vs. 1992 Renault Espace
To start off, 1997 Caterham C21 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1992 Renault Espace. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1992 Renault Espace would be higher. At 1,994 cc (4 cylinders), 1992 Renault Espace is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Caterham C21 (138 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1992 Renault Espace. (104 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Caterham C21 should accelerate faster than 1992 Renault Espace. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1992 Renault Espace weights approximately 796 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 Renault Espace, 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 Renault Espace (159 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Caterham C21. (153 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1992 Renault Espace will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Caterham C21.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Caterham C21 | 1992 Renault Espace | |
| Make | Caterham | Renault |
| Model | C21 | Espace |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1992 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 153 Nm | 159 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 82 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 | 7 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 654 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1700 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2680 mm |
