1997 Caterham C21 vs. 1996 Mazda 626
To start off, 1997 Caterham C21 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mazda 626. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mazda 626 would be higher. At 1,996 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Mazda 626 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Caterham C21 (138 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1996 Mazda 626. (89 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Caterham C21 should accelerate faster than 1996 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mazda 626 weights approximately 551 kg more than 1997 Caterham C21.
Let's talk about torque, 1997 Caterham C21 (153 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda 626. (150 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1997 Caterham C21 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda 626.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Caterham C21 | 1996 Mazda 626 | |
| Make | Caterham | Mazda |
| Model | C21 | 626 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 153 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Vehicle Weight | 654 kg | 1205 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2620 mm |
