1997 Caterham C21 vs. 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer
To start off, 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer is newer by 15 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 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer (168 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1997 Caterham C21. (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer should accelerate faster than 1997 Caterham C21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer weights approximately 715 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, 2012 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, 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer (226 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 81 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Caterham C21. (145 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Caterham C21.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Caterham C21 | 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer | |
Make | Caterham | Mitsubishi |
Model | C21 | Lancer |
Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1587 cc | 2400 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 115 HP | 168 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 145 Nm | 226 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4100 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 650 kg | 1365 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4572 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1763 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1491 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2634 mm |