1997 Caterham C21 vs. 1998 Nissan Skyline
To start off, 1998 Nissan Skyline is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Caterham C21. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Caterham C21 would be higher. At 2,569 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Nissan Skyline is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Nissan Skyline (271 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 156 more horse power than 1997 Caterham C21. (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Nissan Skyline should accelerate faster than 1997 Caterham C21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Nissan Skyline weights approximately 850 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, 1998 Nissan Skyline, 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, 1998 Nissan Skyline (367 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 222 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Caterham C21. (145 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Nissan Skyline will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Caterham C21.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Caterham C21 | 1998 Nissan Skyline | |
| Make | Caterham | Nissan |
| Model | C21 | Skyline |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 2569 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 271 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 367 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 73.7 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 650 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2730 mm |
