1997 Caterham C21 vs. 2003 Subaru Legacy

To start off, 2003 Subaru Legacy 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 2,457 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Subaru Legacy is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Subaru Legacy (162 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1997 Caterham C21. (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Subaru Legacy should accelerate faster than 1997 Caterham C21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Subaru Legacy weights approximately 730 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 2003 Subaru Legacy is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Caterham C21. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Subaru Legacy will offer significantly more control. 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 Subaru Legacy (226 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 81 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Caterham C21. (145 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Subaru Legacy will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Caterham C21. 2003 Subaru Legacy has automatic transmission and 1997 Caterham C21 has manual transmission. 1997 Caterham C21 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Subaru Legacy will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1997 Caterham C21 2003 Subaru Legacy
Make Caterham Subaru
Model C21 Legacy
Year Released 1997 2003
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1587 cc 2457 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line boxer
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 115 HP 162 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 5600 RPM
Torque 145 Nm 226 Nm
Torque RPM 3000 RPM 4400 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 10.5:1 10.0:1
Drive Type Rear 4WD
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Vehicle Weight 650 kg 1380 kg
Vehicle Length 3810 mm 4600 mm
Vehicle Width 1590 mm 1700 mm
Vehicle Height 1060 mm 1410 mm
Wheelbase Size 2260 mm 2680 mm