1998 Caterham C21 vs. 2011 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2011 Nissan Altima is newer by 13 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 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Nissan Altima (270 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 155 more horse power than 1998 Caterham C21. (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 1998 Caterham C21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Nissan Altima weights approximately 862 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, 2011 Nissan Altima, 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, 2011 Nissan Altima (349 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 203 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Caterham C21. (146 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2011 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Caterham C21.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Caterham C21 | 2011 Nissan Altima | |
| Make | Caterham | Nissan |
| Model | C21 | Altima |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 270 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 349 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | CVT |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 650 kg | 1512 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4595 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1796 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2675 mm |
