1997 Caterham C21 vs. 1996 Caterham 7
To start off, 1997 Caterham C21 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Caterham 7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Caterham 7 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Caterham C21 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Caterham C21 (250 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 112 more horse power than 1996 Caterham 7. (138 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Caterham C21 should accelerate faster than 1996 Caterham 7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Caterham C21 weights approximately 212 kg more than 1996 Caterham 7. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 (252 Nm @ 5750 RPM) has 96 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Caterham 7. (156 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1997 Caterham C21 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Caterham 7.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Caterham C21 | 1996 Caterham 7 | |
| Make | Caterham | Caterham |
| Model | C21 | 7 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 250 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 252 Nm | 156 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5750 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 690 kg | 478 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 3110 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 810 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2240 mm |
