1997 Caterham C21 vs. 2009 Renault Espace
To start off, 2009 Renault Espace 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 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Renault Espace is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Renault Espace (239 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 124 more horse power than 1997 Caterham C21. (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Renault Espace should accelerate faster than 1997 Caterham C21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Renault Espace weights approximately 1165 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, 2009 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, 2009 Renault Espace (330 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 185 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Caterham C21. (145 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Renault Espace will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Caterham C21. 2009 Renault Espace 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 Renault Espace will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Caterham C21 | 2009 Renault Espace | |
| Make | Caterham | Renault |
| Model | C21 | Espace |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 239 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 81.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 650 kg | 1815 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 2110 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2870 mm |
