2000 Caterham C21 vs. 1962 Lotus Elite
To start off, 2000 Caterham C21 is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 Lotus Elite. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 Lotus Elite 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) has 32 more horse power than 1962 Lotus Elite. (83 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2000 Caterham C21 should accelerate faster than 1962 Lotus Elite. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1962 Lotus Elite weights approximately 10 kg more than 2000 Caterham C21.
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, 2000 Caterham C21 (145 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 Lotus Elite. (102 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2000 Caterham C21 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 Lotus Elite.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Caterham C21 | 1962 Lotus Elite | |
| Make | Caterham | Lotus |
| Model | C21 | Elite |
| Year Released | 2000 | 1962 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1215 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 83 HP |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 102 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 76.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 66.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 650 kg | 660 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 3710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1510 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1190 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2240 mm |
