2003 Acura TL vs. 1997 Caterham C21
To start off, 2003 Acura TL is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Caterham C21. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Caterham C21 would be higher. At 3,210 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Acura TL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Caterham C21 (250 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 2003 Acura TL. (225 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Caterham C21 should accelerate faster than 2003 Acura TL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Acura TL weights approximately 888 kg more than 1997 Caterham C21.
Because 1997 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 1997 Caterham C21. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Acura TL, 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, 2003 Acura TL (294 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Caterham C21. (252 Nm @ 5750 RPM). This means 2003 Acura TL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Caterham C21. 2003 Acura TL has automatic transmission and 1997 Caterham C21 has manual transmission. 1997 Caterham C21 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Acura TL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Acura TL | 1997 Caterham C21 | |
Make | Acura | Caterham |
Model | TL | C21 |
Year Released | 2003 | 1997 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3210 cc | 1998 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 225 HP | 250 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 8000 RPM |
Torque | 294 Nm | 252 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4700 RPM | 5750 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1578 kg | 690 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4900 mm | 3810 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1590 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1060 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2260 mm |