2002 Acura EL vs. 1995 Caterham 21
To start off, 2002 Acura EL is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 Caterham 21. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 Caterham 21 would be higher. At 1,668 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Acura EL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 Caterham 21 (138 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 2002 Acura EL. (124 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1995 Caterham 21 should accelerate faster than 2002 Acura EL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Acura EL weights approximately 532 kg more than 1995 Caterham 21.
Because 1995 Caterham 21 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 1995 Caterham 21. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Acura EL, 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, both vehicles can yield 156 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Acura EL | 1995 Caterham 21 | |
| Make | Acura | Caterham |
| Model | EL | 21 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1995 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1668 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 124 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 156 Nm | 156 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1180 kg | 648 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1070 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2260 mm |
