1997 Caterham C21 vs. 2008 Seat Leon
To start off, 2008 Seat Leon 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 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Seat Leon is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Caterham C21 (138 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 2008 Seat Leon. (105 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Caterham C21 should accelerate faster than 2008 Seat Leon. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Seat Leon weights approximately 636 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 Seat Leon, 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 Seat Leon (250 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 97 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Caterham C21. (153 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2008 Seat Leon will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Caterham C21.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Caterham C21 | 2008 Seat Leon | |
Make | Caterham | Seat |
Model | C21 | Leon |
Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1896 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 105 HP |
Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 153 Nm | 250 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 1900 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 79.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 95.5 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 19.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 654 kg | 1290 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4320 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2580 mm |