The cabriolet Caterham 21 1994 - 2000 year modification 1.8 MT (124 hp)

Caterham 21: A Timeless British Classic

The Caterham 21 is a unique and iconic British sports car that combines classic design with modern performance. Produced between 1994 and 2000, this cabriolet model is a testament to Caterham's commitment to lightweight engineering and driving pleasure. With its 1.8-liter petrol engine and rear-wheel drive, the Caterham 21 offers an exhilarating driving experience that appeals to enthusiasts and collectors alike.

Performance and Engineering

Under the hood, the Caterham 21 is powered by a 1.8-liter inline-4 petrol engine, delivering 124 horsepower and 165 Nm of torque. This engine, paired with a 6-speed manual transmission, allows the car to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 6.3 seconds, reaching a top speed of 200 km/h. The rear-wheel-drive configuration ensures a dynamic and engaging driving experience, making it a joy to handle on both city streets and open highways.

The car's lightweight construction, with a curb weight of just 650 kg, contributes to its impressive performance. The independent front suspension and dependent rear suspension, combined with disc brakes on both axles, provide excellent handling and stopping power. Whether you're navigating tight corners or cruising on the highway, the Caterham 21 delivers a balanced and responsive ride.

Design and Practicality

The Caterham 21's design is a blend of classic and modern elements. Its compact dimensions—3800 mm in length, 1580 mm in width, and 1150 mm in height—give it a sleek and sporty appearance. The cabriolet body type allows for open-top driving, perfect for enjoying sunny days and scenic routes. Despite its sporty nature, the car offers a surprising amount of practicality, with a trunk capacity of 250 liters, making it suitable for weekend getaways.

The interior, though minimalist, is designed with the driver in mind. The focus is on functionality and comfort, ensuring that every drive is enjoyable. The car's low ground clearance of 110 mm and wide track width of 1320 mm contribute to its stable and planted stance on the road.

Fuel Efficiency and Maintenance

The Caterham 21 is relatively fuel-efficient for a sports car, with a city fuel consumption of 12 liters per 100 km and a highway consumption of 8 liters per 100 km. It runs on Super 95 petrol, making it accessible for most drivers. The 66-liter fuel tank ensures a decent range, reducing the need for frequent refueling during long drives.

Maintenance is straightforward, thanks to the car's simple yet robust engineering. The distributed injection system and high compression ratio of 10.5 ensure reliable performance, while the 4-valve-per-cylinder configuration enhances efficiency and power delivery.

Pros and Cons

• Pros: Lightweight design, excellent handling, classic styling, open-top driving experience, and impressive acceleration.
• Cons: Limited interior space, minimal trunk capacity, and higher fuel consumption in city driving conditions.

Conclusion

The Caterham 21 is a rare gem in the world of sports cars, offering a unique blend of performance, design, and driving pleasure. Its lightweight construction, rear-wheel drive, and manual transmission make it a true driver's car, while its classic cabriolet design ensures it stands out from the crowd. Whether you're a seasoned enthusiast or a newcomer to the world of sports cars, the Caterham 21 is a vehicle that promises unforgettable experiences on the road.