1998 Caterham C21 vs. 1993 Renault 19
To start off, 1998 Caterham C21 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1993 Renault 19. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1993 Renault 19 would be higher. At 1,764 cc (4 cylinders), 1993 Renault 19 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1993 Renault 19 (140 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1998 Caterham C21. (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1993 Renault 19 should accelerate faster than 1998 Caterham C21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1993 Renault 19 weights approximately 540 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, 1993 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, 1993 Renault 19 (165 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Caterham C21. (146 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1993 Renault 19 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Caterham C21.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Caterham C21 | 1993 Renault 19 | |
| Make | Caterham | Renault |
| Model | C21 | 19 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1993 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1764 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 650 kg | 1190 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2550 mm |
