2000 Caterham 21 vs. 2007 Lexus IS
To start off, 2007 Lexus IS is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2000 Caterham 21. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2000 Caterham 21 would be higher. At 2,499 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Caterham 21 (230 HP @ 8600 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 2007 Lexus IS. (205 HP @ 6400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2000 Caterham 21 should accelerate faster than 2007 Lexus IS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Lexus IS weights approximately 1225 kg more than 2000 Caterham 21.
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, 2007 Lexus IS (251 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Caterham 21. (210 Nm @ 7200 RPM). This means 2007 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Caterham 21. 2007 Lexus IS has automatic transmission and 2000 Caterham 21 has manual transmission. 2000 Caterham 21 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Lexus IS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Caterham 21 | 2007 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Caterham | Lexus |
| Model | 21 | IS |
| Year Released | 2000 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1794 cc | 2499 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 230 HP | 205 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8600 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 7200 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 241 km/hour | 230 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 540 kg | 1765 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1810 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2740 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 100 L | 65 L |
