1998 Caterham C21 vs. 1979 Lancia Delta
To start off, 1998 Caterham C21 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Lancia Delta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Lancia Delta would be higher. At 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Caterham C21 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Caterham C21 (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 1979 Lancia Delta. (88 HP @ 6250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Caterham C21 should accelerate faster than 1979 Lancia Delta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Lancia Delta weights approximately 375 kg more than 1998 Caterham C21.
Because 1998 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 1998 Caterham C21. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 Lancia Delta, 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, 1998 Caterham C21 (146 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Lancia Delta. (123 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1998 Caterham C21 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Lancia Delta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Caterham C21 | 1979 Lancia Delta | |
| Make | Caterham | Lancia |
| Model | C21 | Delta |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1584 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 88 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 123 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 71.5 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 650 kg | 1025 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 3900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2480 mm |
