2000 Caterham C21 vs. 1959 Lotus Seven
To start off, 2000 Caterham C21 is newer by 41 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Lotus Seven. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Lotus Seven would be higher. At 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 2000 Caterham C21 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Caterham C21 (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 1959 Lotus Seven. (36 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2000 Caterham C21 should accelerate faster than 1959 Lotus Seven. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Caterham C21 weights approximately 210 kg more than 1959 Lotus Seven. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Caterham C21 | 1959 Lotus Seven | |
| Make | Caterham | Lotus |
| Model | C21 | Seven |
| Year Released | 2000 | 1959 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 947 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 36 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 650 kg | 440 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 3280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1350 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2240 mm |
