2000 Caterham C21 vs. 1987 Ford Probe
To start off, 2000 Caterham C21 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Ford Probe. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Ford Probe would be higher. At 2,184 cc (4 cylinders), 1987 Ford Probe is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Ford Probe (138 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 2000 Caterham C21. (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1987 Ford Probe should accelerate faster than 2000 Caterham C21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Ford Probe weights approximately 600 kg more than 2000 Caterham C21. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2000 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 2000 Caterham C21. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 Ford Probe, 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, 1987 Ford Probe (262 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 117 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Caterham C21. (145 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1987 Ford Probe will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Caterham C21.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Caterham C21 | 1987 Ford Probe | |
| Make | Caterham | Ford |
| Model | C21 | Probe |
| Year Released | 2000 | 1987 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2184 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 262 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 94 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 650 kg | 1250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2530 mm |
