1997 Caterham C21 vs. 1997 Mini MK VII
To start off, both 1997 Caterham C21 and 1997 Mini MK VII were released in the same year (1997). Therefore the support and the availability on parts for both vehicles should be relatively similar. At 1,587 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Caterham C21 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Caterham C21 (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1997 Mini MK VII. (96 HP @ 6130 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Caterham C21 should accelerate faster than 1997 Mini MK VII. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mini MK VII weights approximately 85 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, 1997 Mini MK VII, 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 (145 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mini MK VII. (115 Nm @ 2650 RPM). This means 1997 Caterham C21 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mini MK VII.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Caterham C21 | 1997 Mini MK VII | |
| Make | Caterham | Mini |
| Model | C21 | MK VII |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 1275 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 96 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6130 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 115 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2650 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 650 kg | 735 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 3060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1450 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2040 mm |
