1997 Caterham C21 vs. 2001 Mercury Cougar
To start off, 2001 Mercury Cougar is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Caterham C21. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Caterham C21 would be higher. At 1,983 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Mercury Cougar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mercury Cougar (123 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1997 Caterham C21. (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mercury Cougar should accelerate faster than 1997 Caterham C21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mercury Cougar weights approximately 664 kg more than 1997 Caterham C21. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2001 Mercury Cougar, 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, 2001 Mercury Cougar (176 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Caterham C21. (145 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2001 Mercury Cougar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Caterham C21. 2001 Mercury Cougar 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. 2001 Mercury Cougar will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Caterham C21 | 2001 Mercury Cougar | |
Make | Caterham | Mercury |
Model | C21 | Cougar |
Year Released | 1997 | 2001 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1587 cc | 1983 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 115 HP | 123 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 145 Nm | 176 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Vehicle Weight | 650 kg | 1314 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4710 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1330 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2710 mm |