1998 Caterham C21 vs. 2008 Toyota Celica
To start off, 2008 Toyota Celica is newer by 10 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 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Toyota Celica is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Toyota Celica (190 HP @ 7800 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 1998 Caterham C21. (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Toyota Celica should accelerate faster than 1998 Caterham C21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Toyota Celica weights approximately 565 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, 2008 Toyota Celica, 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, 2008 Toyota Celica (180 Nm @ 6800 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Caterham C21. (146 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Toyota Celica will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Caterham C21.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Caterham C21 | 2008 Toyota Celica | |
| Make | Caterham | Toyota |
| Model | C21 | Celica |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 7800 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 85 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 650 kg | 1215 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4360 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2610 mm |
