1997 Caterham C21 vs. 1993 Mazda 626
To start off, 1997 Caterham C21 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1993 Mazda 626. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1993 Mazda 626 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1993 Mazda 626 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Caterham C21 (138 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 1993 Mazda 626. (74 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Caterham C21 should accelerate faster than 1993 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1993 Mazda 626 weights approximately 616 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, 1993 Mazda 626, 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, 1993 Mazda 626 (172 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Caterham C21. (153 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1993 Mazda 626 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Caterham C21.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Caterham C21 | 1993 Mazda 626 | |
| Make | Caterham | Mazda |
| Model | C21 | 626 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1993 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 153 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 86 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 654 kg | 1270 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2620 mm |
