1997 Caterham C21 vs. 2007 Lexus IS
To start off, 2007 Lexus IS is newer by 10 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 2,499 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Lexus IS (205 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 1997 Caterham C21. (138 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 1997 Caterham C21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Lexus IS weights approximately 1111 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, 2007 Lexus IS (251 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 98 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Caterham C21. (153 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2007 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Caterham C21. 2007 Lexus IS 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. 2007 Lexus IS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Caterham C21 | 2007 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Caterham | Lexus |
| Model | C21 | IS |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2499 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 205 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 153 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 654 kg | 1765 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2740 mm |
