1997 Caterham C21 vs. 1983 Mitsubishi Pajero
To start off, 1997 Caterham C21 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Mitsubishi Pajero. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Mitsubishi Pajero would be higher. At 2,476 cc (4 cylinders), 1983 Mitsubishi Pajero is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Caterham C21 (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1983 Mitsubishi Pajero. (83 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Caterham C21 should accelerate faster than 1983 Mitsubishi Pajero. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Mitsubishi Pajero weights approximately 950 kg more than 1997 Caterham C21.
Because 1983 Mitsubishi Pajero is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Caterham C21. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 Mitsubishi Pajero will offer significantly more control. 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, 1983 Mitsubishi Pajero (201 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Caterham C21. (145 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1983 Mitsubishi Pajero will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Caterham C21.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Caterham C21 | 1983 Mitsubishi Pajero | |
| Make | Caterham | Mitsubishi |
| Model | C21 | Pajero |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 2476 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 83 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 201 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 650 kg | 1600 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4610 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1840 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2710 mm |
