1998 Caterham C21 vs. 1978 Mitsubishi Lancer
To start off, 1998 Caterham C21 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mitsubishi Lancer. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mitsubishi Lancer would be higher. At 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Caterham C21 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Caterham C21 (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 1978 Mitsubishi Lancer. (53 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Caterham C21 should accelerate faster than 1978 Mitsubishi Lancer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mitsubishi Lancer weights approximately 210 kg more than 1998 Caterham C21.
Let's talk about torque, 1998 Caterham C21 (146 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mitsubishi Lancer. (85 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Caterham C21 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mitsubishi Lancer.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Caterham C21 | 1978 Mitsubishi Lancer | |
| Make | Caterham | Mitsubishi |
| Model | C21 | Lancer |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1238 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 85 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 650 kg | 860 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2350 mm |
