1997 Caterham C21 vs. 2007 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2007 Mazda RX-8 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 1,587 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Caterham C21 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mazda RX-8 (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1997 Caterham C21. (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1997 Caterham C21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 770 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 Mazda RX-8 (221 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 76 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Caterham C21. (145 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2007 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Caterham C21.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Caterham C21 | 2007 Mazda RX-8 | |
Make | Caterham | Mazda |
Model | C21 | RX-8 |
Year Released | 1997 | 2007 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1587 cc | 1308 cc |
Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
Horse Power | 115 HP | 189 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
Torque | 145 Nm | 221 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 78 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 83.6 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 650 kg | 1420 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4440 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1780 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1350 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2710 mm |