1998 Caterham C21 vs. 1996 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1998 Caterham C21 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Lotus Elan would be higher. Both 1998 Caterham C21 and 1996 Lotus Elan are equipped with a 1,588 cc engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Lotus Elan (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1998 Caterham C21. (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1998 Caterham C21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Lotus Elan weights approximately 370 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, 1996 Lotus Elan, 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, 1996 Lotus Elan (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Caterham C21. (146 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Caterham C21.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Caterham C21 | 1996 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Caterham | Lotus |
| Model | C21 | Elan |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 204 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 650 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2260 mm |
