1998 Caterham C21 vs. 1989 Chrysler TC
To start off, 1998 Caterham C21 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Chrysler TC. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Chrysler TC would be higher. At 2,213 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Chrysler TC is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Chrysler TC (176 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 1998 Caterham C21. (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Chrysler TC should accelerate faster than 1998 Caterham C21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Chrysler TC weights approximately 824 kg more than 1998 Caterham C21. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1989 Chrysler TC, 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, 1989 Chrysler TC (271 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 125 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Caterham C21. (146 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1989 Chrysler TC will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Caterham C21.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Caterham C21 | 1989 Chrysler TC | |
| Make | Caterham | Chrysler |
| Model | C21 | TC |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2213 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 176 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 92 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 650 kg | 1474 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2370 mm |
