1998 Caterham C21 vs. 1989 Renault 19
To start off, 1998 Caterham C21 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Renault 19. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Renault 19 would be higher. At 1,721 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Renault 19 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Caterham C21 (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1989 Renault 19. (92 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Caterham C21 should accelerate faster than 1989 Renault 19. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Renault 19 weights approximately 360 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, 1989 Renault 19, 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 11 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Renault 19. (135 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Caterham C21 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Renault 19.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Caterham C21 | 1989 Renault 19 | |
| Make | Caterham | Renault |
| Model | C21 | 19 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 92 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 650 kg | 1010 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2560 mm |
