1997 Caterham C21 vs. 2004 Renault Megane
To start off, 2004 Renault Megane 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 1,587 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Caterham C21 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Caterham C21 (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 2004 Renault Megane. (105 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Caterham C21 should accelerate faster than 2004 Renault Megane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Renault Megane weights approximately 465 kg more than 1997 Caterham C21.
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, 2004 Renault Megane, 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, 1997 Caterham C21 (145 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Renault Megane. (127 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1997 Caterham C21 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Renault Megane.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Caterham C21 | 2004 Renault Megane | |
| Make | Caterham | Renault |
| Model | C21 | Megane |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 1461 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 105 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 127 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 70 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 650 kg | 1115 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2480 mm |
