1997 Caterham C21 vs. 1993 Mercury Capri
To start off, 1997 Caterham C21 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1993 Mercury Capri. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1993 Mercury Capri would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 1993 Mercury Capri is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Caterham C21 (138 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1993 Mercury Capri. (100 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Caterham C21 should accelerate faster than 1993 Mercury Capri. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1993 Mercury Capri weights approximately 432 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 Mercury Capri, 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 (153 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 1993 Mercury Capri. (130 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1997 Caterham C21 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1993 Mercury Capri.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Caterham C21 | 1993 Mercury Capri | |
| Make | Caterham | Mercury |
| Model | C21 | Capri |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1993 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 153 Nm | 130 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 654 kg | 1086 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2410 mm |
