1997 Caterham C21 vs. 2008 Renault Espace
To start off, 2008 Renault Espace 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Renault Espace is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Renault Espace weights approximately 840 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, 2008 Renault Espace, 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 Renault Espace (188 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Caterham C21. (145 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Renault Espace will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Caterham C21.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Caterham C21 | 2008 Renault Espace | |
| Make | Caterham | Renault |
| Model | C21 | Espace |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 188 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 650 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 3780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1730 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2710 mm |
