1997 Caterham C21 vs. 2008 Tesla Roadster
To start off, 2008 Tesla Roadster 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. In terms of performance, 2008 Tesla Roadster (288 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 150 more horse power than 1997 Caterham C21. (138 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Tesla Roadster should accelerate faster than 1997 Caterham C21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Tesla Roadster weights approximately 581 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, 2008 Tesla Roadster (370 Nm) has 217 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Caterham C21. (153 Nm). This means 2008 Tesla Roadster will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Caterham C21.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Caterham C21 | 2008 Tesla Roadster | |
Make | Caterham | Tesla |
Model | C21 | Roadster |
Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
Engine Position | Front | Middle |
Engine Type | in-line | electric |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 288 HP |
Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 153 Nm | 370 Nm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Electric |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Single Speed |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 654 kg | 1235 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 3947 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1852 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1128 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2352 mm |