1998 Caterham C21 vs. 2012 Acura RDX
To start off, 2012 Acura RDX is newer by 14 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 2,300 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Acura RDX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Acura RDX (240 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 125 more horse power than 1998 Caterham C21. (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Acura RDX should accelerate faster than 1998 Caterham C21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Acura RDX weights approximately 1133 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 2012 Acura RDX is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Caterham C21. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Acura RDX will offer significantly more control. 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, 2012 Acura RDX (352 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 206 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Caterham C21. (146 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Acura RDX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Caterham C21. 2012 Acura RDX has automatic transmission and 1998 Caterham C21 has manual transmission. 1998 Caterham C21 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Acura RDX will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Caterham C21 | 2012 Acura RDX | |
| Make | Caterham | Acura |
| Model | C21 | RDX |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2300 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 240 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 352 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 650 kg | 1783 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4636 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1869 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1654 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2649 mm |
