1998 Caterham C21 vs. 1991 Rover 820
To start off, 1998 Caterham C21 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Rover 820. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Rover 820 would be higher. At 1,994 cc (4 cylinders), 1991 Rover 820 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Rover 820 (180 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1998 Caterham C21. (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1991 Rover 820 should accelerate faster than 1998 Caterham C21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Rover 820 weights approximately 758 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, 1991 Rover 820, 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, 1991 Rover 820 (215 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Caterham C21. (146 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1991 Rover 820 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Caterham C21.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Caterham C21 | 1991 Rover 820 | |
| Make | Caterham | Rover |
| Model | C21 | 820 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1991 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 180 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 215 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 84.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 89 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 650 kg | 1408 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2780 mm |
