2007 Acura RL vs. 1998 Caterham C21
To start off, 2007 Acura RL is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Caterham C21. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Caterham C21 would be higher. At 3,471 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 Acura RL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Acura RL (290 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 175 more horse power than 1998 Caterham C21. (115 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Acura RL should accelerate faster than 1998 Caterham C21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Acura RL weights approximately 925 kg more than 1998 Caterham C21. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2007 Acura RL is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Caterham C21. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 Acura RL 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, 2007 Acura RL (347 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 201 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Caterham C21. (146 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2007 Acura RL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Caterham C21. 2007 Acura RL has automatic transmission and 1998 Caterham C21 has manual transmission. 1998 Caterham C21 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Acura RL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Acura RL | 1998 Caterham C21 | |
| Make | Acura | Caterham |
| Model | RL | C21 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3471 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 290 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 347 Nm | 146 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93 mm | 79 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1575 kg | 650 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1060 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2260 mm |
