1997 Caterham C21 vs. 1977 Mini MK IV
To start off, 1997 Caterham C21 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Mini MK IV. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Mini MK IV would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Caterham C21 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Caterham C21 (250 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 206 more horse power than 1977 Mini MK IV. (44 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Caterham C21 should accelerate faster than 1977 Mini MK IV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Caterham C21 weights approximately 45 kg more than 1977 Mini MK IV. 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, 1977 Mini MK IV, 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, 1997 Caterham C21 (252 Nm @ 5750 RPM) has 176 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Mini MK IV. (76 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1997 Caterham C21 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Mini MK IV.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Caterham C21 | 1977 Mini MK IV | |
Make | Caterham | Mini |
Model | C21 | MK IV |
Year Released | 1997 | 1977 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1098 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 250 HP | 44 HP |
Engine RPM | 8000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
Torque | 252 Nm | 76 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5750 RPM | 2700 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 690 kg | 645 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 3060 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1420 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1360 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2040 mm |