1998 Caterham C21 vs. 2012 Lexus CT
To start off, 2012 Lexus CT 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 1,800 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Lexus CT is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Lexus CT (134 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1998 Caterham C21. (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Lexus CT should accelerate faster than 1998 Caterham C21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Lexus CT weights approximately 777 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, 2012 Lexus CT, 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, 2012 Lexus CT (192 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Caterham C21. (146 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Lexus CT will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Caterham C21.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Caterham C21 | 2012 Lexus CT | |
Make | Caterham | Lexus |
Model | C21 | CT |
Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1800 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 115 HP | 134 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 146 Nm | 192 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | CVT |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 650 kg | 1427 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4321 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1765 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2601 mm |