2000 Caterham C21 vs. 2012 Lexus IS
To start off, 2012 Lexus IS is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2000 Caterham C21. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2000 Caterham C21 would be higher. At 2,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Lexus IS (204 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 89 more horse power than 2000 Caterham C21. (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 2000 Caterham C21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Lexus IS weights approximately 917 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 2012 Lexus IS is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2000 Caterham C21. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Lexus IS will offer significantly more control. 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 IS (251 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 106 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Caterham C21. (145 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Caterham C21. 2012 Lexus IS has automatic transmission and 2000 Caterham C21 has manual transmission. 2000 Caterham C21 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Lexus IS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Caterham C21 | 2012 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Caterham | Lexus |
| Model | C21 | IS |
| Year Released | 2000 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 204 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 650 kg | 1567 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4585 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1801 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2731 mm |
