1997 Caterham C21 vs. 1999 Acura EL
To start off, 1999 Acura EL is newer by 2 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 1,600 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Acura EL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Caterham C21 (138 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1999 Acura EL. (127 HP @ 6600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Caterham C21 should accelerate faster than 1999 Acura EL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Acura EL weights approximately 425 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, 1999 Acura EL, 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 8 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Acura EL. (145 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1997 Caterham C21 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Acura EL.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Caterham C21 | 1999 Acura EL | |
Make | Caterham | Acura |
Model | C21 | EL |
Year Released | 1997 | 1999 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1600 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 127 HP |
Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6600 RPM |
Torque | 153 Nm | 145 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 654 kg | 1079 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4478 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1704 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1394 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2619 mm |