1997 Caterham C21 vs. 2002 Vector M12
To start off, 2002 Vector M12 is newer by 5 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 5,707 cc (12 cylinders), 2002 Vector M12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Vector M12 (484 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 346 more horse power than 1997 Caterham C21. (138 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Vector M12 should accelerate faster than 1997 Caterham C21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Vector M12 weights approximately 978 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, 2002 Vector M12 (576 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 423 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Caterham C21. (153 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2002 Vector M12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Caterham C21.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Caterham C21 | 2002 Vector M12 | |
| Make | Caterham | Vector |
| Model | C21 | M12 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 5707 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 484 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 153 Nm | 576 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 654 kg | 1632 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 2030 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1140 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2750 mm |
