1997 Caterham C21 vs. 2009 Lexus LS
To start off, 2009 Lexus LS is newer by 12 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 4,605 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Lexus LS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Lexus LS (381 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 243 more horse power than 1997 Caterham C21. (138 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Lexus LS should accelerate faster than 1997 Caterham C21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Lexus LS weights approximately 1111 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, 2009 Lexus LS (498 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 345 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Caterham C21. (153 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2009 Lexus LS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Caterham C21. 2009 Lexus LS 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. 2009 Lexus LS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Caterham C21 | 2009 Lexus LS | |
Make | Caterham | Lexus |
Model | C21 | LS |
Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1588 cc | 4605 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 381 HP |
Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6400 RPM |
Torque | 153 Nm | 498 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4100 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 94 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 83 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 11.8:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 654 kg | 1765 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 5160 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1880 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1480 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 3100 mm |