1997 Caterham C21 vs. 2004 Panoz Esperante
To start off, 2004 Panoz Esperante 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 4,587 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Panoz Esperante is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Panoz Esperante (305 HP) has 55 more horse power than 1997 Caterham C21. (250 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Panoz Esperante should accelerate faster than 1997 Caterham C21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Panoz Esperante weights approximately 760 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, 2004 Panoz Esperante (434 Nm) has 182 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Caterham C21. (252 Nm). This means 2004 Panoz Esperante will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Caterham C21.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Caterham C21 | 2004 Panoz Esperante | |
| Make | Caterham | Panoz |
| Model | C21 | Esperante |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 4587 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 250 HP | 305 HP |
| Torque | 252 Nm | 434 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 690 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2700 mm |
