1997 Caterham C21 vs. 1999 Lotus M250
To start off, 1999 Lotus M250 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 2,946 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 Lotus M250 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Lotus M250 (247 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 109 more horse power than 1997 Caterham C21. (138 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Lotus M250 should accelerate faster than 1997 Caterham C21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Lotus M250 weights approximately 296 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.
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, 1999 Lotus M250 (321 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 168 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Caterham C21. (153 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1999 Lotus M250 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Caterham C21.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Caterham C21 | 1999 Lotus M250 | |
| Make | Caterham | Lotus |
| Model | C21 | M250 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2946 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 247 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 153 Nm | 321 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 654 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4140 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1180 mm |
