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 28 more horse power than 1997 Caterham C21. (138 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Honda Element should accelerate faster than 1997 Caterham C21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Honda Element weights approximately 700 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.
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, 2008 Honda Element, 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, 2008 Honda Element (218 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Caterham C21. (153 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2008 Honda Element will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Caterham C21.
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 | 1588 cc | 2354 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 166 HP |
Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 153 Nm | 218 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.7:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 654 kg | 1354 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4310 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1790 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2580 mm |