2009 Buick LaCrosse vs. 1997 Caterham C21
To start off, 2009 Buick LaCrosse is newer by 12 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 5,325 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Buick LaCrosse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Buick LaCrosse (300 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 185 more horse power than 1997 Caterham C21. (115 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Buick LaCrosse should accelerate faster than 1997 Caterham C21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Buick LaCrosse weights approximately 1208 kg more than 1997 Caterham C21. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2009 Buick LaCrosse, 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, 2009 Buick LaCrosse (438 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 293 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Caterham C21. (145 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Buick LaCrosse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Caterham C21. 2009 Buick LaCrosse 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. 2009 Buick LaCrosse will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Buick LaCrosse | 1997 Caterham C21 | |
Make | Buick | Caterham |
Model | LaCrosse | C21 |
Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5325 cc | 1587 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 300 HP | 115 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 438 Nm | 145 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1858 kg | 650 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 3810 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1590 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1060 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2260 mm |