1997 Caterham C21 vs. 2008 Honda Element
To start off, 2008 Honda Element is newer by 11 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 2,354 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Honda Element is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Honda Element (166 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 1997 Caterham C21. (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Honda Element should accelerate faster than 1997 Caterham C21.
Because 2008 Honda Element is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Caterham C21. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Honda Element will offer significantly more control. 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, 2008 Honda Element (218 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 73 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Caterham C21. (145 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Honda Element will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Caterham C21. 2008 Honda Element 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. 2008 Honda Element will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Caterham C21 | 2008 Honda Element | |
| Make | Caterham | Honda |
| Model | C21 | Element |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 2354 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 166 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 218 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4330 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2580 mm |
