1997 Caterham C21 vs. 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer
To start off, 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer is newer by 12 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 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer (150 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1997 Caterham C21. (138 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer should accelerate faster than 1997 Caterham C21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer weights approximately 886 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, 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer, 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 7 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer. (146 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1997 Caterham C21 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Caterham C21 | 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer | |
Make | Caterham | Mitsubishi |
Model | C21 | Lancer |
Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1999 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 150 HP |
Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 153 Nm | 146 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 654 kg | 1540 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4580 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1500 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1770 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2640 mm |