1998 Caterham C21 vs. 2000 Caterham 7
To start off, 2000 Caterham 7 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Caterham C21. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Caterham C21 would be higher. At 1,795 cc (4 cylinders), 2000 Caterham 7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Caterham 7 (230 HP @ 8600 RPM) has 115 more horse power than 1998 Caterham C21. (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2000 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 1998 Caterham C21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Caterham C21 weights approximately 190 kg more than 2000 Caterham 7.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2000 Caterham 7 (210 Nm @ 7200 RPM) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Caterham C21. (146 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2000 Caterham 7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Caterham C21.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Caterham C21 | 2000 Caterham 7 | |
| Make | Caterham | Caterham |
| Model | C21 | 7 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2000 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1795 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 230 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 8600 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 7200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 89.3 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 650 kg | 460 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 3110 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 810 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2230 mm |
