1995 Caterham 21 vs. 2001 Mitsubishi Eclipse
To start off, 2001 Mitsubishi Eclipse is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 Caterham 21. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 Caterham 21 would be higher. At 2,350 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Mitsubishi Eclipse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mitsubishi Eclipse (145 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1995 Caterham 21. (138 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mitsubishi Eclipse should accelerate faster than 1995 Caterham 21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mitsubishi Eclipse weights approximately 762 kg more than 1995 Caterham 21. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2001 Mitsubishi Eclipse, 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, 2001 Mitsubishi Eclipse (214 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 Caterham 21. (156 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2001 Mitsubishi Eclipse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 Caterham 21.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 Caterham 21 | 2001 Mitsubishi Eclipse | |
| Make | Caterham | Mitsubishi |
| Model | 21 | Eclipse |
| Year Released | 1995 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2350 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 145 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 156 Nm | 214 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 100 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 648 kg | 1410 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1070 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2570 mm |
