1997 Caterham C21 vs. 2004 Lotus Elise
To start off, 2004 Lotus Elise is newer by 7 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Caterham C21 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Caterham C21 (250 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 130 more horse power than 2004 Lotus Elise. (120 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Caterham C21 should accelerate faster than 2004 Lotus Elise. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Lotus Elise weights approximately 60 kg more than 1997 Caterham C21.
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, 1997 Caterham C21 (252 Nm @ 5750 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Lotus Elise. (172 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1997 Caterham C21 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Lotus Elise.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Caterham C21 | 2004 Lotus Elise | |
Make | Caterham | Lotus |
Model | C21 | Elise |
Year Released | 1997 | 2004 |
Engine Position | Front | Middle |
Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1796 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 250 HP | 120 HP |
Engine RPM | 8000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 252 Nm | 172 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5750 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 690 kg | 750 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 3790 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1150 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2310 mm |