1997 Caterham C21 vs. 2003 Infiniti I
To start off, 2003 Infiniti I is newer by 6 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 2,960 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Infiniti I is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Infiniti I (224 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 1997 Caterham C21. (138 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Infiniti I should accelerate faster than 1997 Caterham C21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Infiniti I weights approximately 858 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, 2003 Infiniti I, 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, 2003 Infiniti I (270 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 117 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Caterham C21. (153 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2003 Infiniti I will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Caterham C21.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Caterham C21 | 2003 Infiniti I | |
| Make | Caterham | Infiniti |
| Model | C21 | I |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2960 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 224 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 153 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 654 kg | 1512 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4930 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2760 mm |
