1995 Caterham 21 vs. 1987 Mitsubishi Debonair
To start off, 1995 Caterham 21 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Mitsubishi Debonair. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Mitsubishi Debonair would be higher. At 1,998 cc (6 cylinders), 1987 Mitsubishi Debonair is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 Caterham 21 (138 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1987 Mitsubishi Debonair. (118 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1995 Caterham 21 should accelerate faster than 1987 Mitsubishi Debonair. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Mitsubishi Debonair weights approximately 752 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, 1987 Mitsubishi Debonair, 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, 1987 Mitsubishi Debonair (172 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 Caterham 21. (156 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1987 Mitsubishi Debonair will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 Caterham 21. 1987 Mitsubishi Debonair has automatic transmission and 1995 Caterham 21 has manual transmission. 1995 Caterham 21 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1987 Mitsubishi Debonair will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 Caterham 21 | 1987 Mitsubishi Debonair | |
| Make | Caterham | Mitsubishi |
| Model | 21 | Debonair |
| Year Released | 1995 | 1987 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 156 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 648 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1070 mm | 1450 mm |
