1997 Caterham C21 vs. 1988 Mitsubishi Magna
To start off, 1997 Caterham C21 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Mitsubishi Magna. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Mitsubishi Magna would be higher. At 2,555 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Mitsubishi Magna is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Caterham C21 (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1988 Mitsubishi Magna. (111 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Caterham C21 should accelerate faster than 1988 Mitsubishi Magna. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Mitsubishi Magna weights approximately 675 kg more than 1997 Caterham C21.
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, 1988 Mitsubishi Magna, 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, 1988 Mitsubishi Magna (195 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Caterham C21. (145 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1988 Mitsubishi Magna will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Caterham C21. 1988 Mitsubishi Magna has automatic transmission and 1997 Caterham C21 has manual transmission. 1997 Caterham C21 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1988 Mitsubishi Magna will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Caterham C21 | 1988 Mitsubishi Magna | |
| Make | Caterham | Mitsubishi |
| Model | C21 | Magna |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 2555 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 111 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 195 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 650 kg | 1325 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2600 mm |
