1998 Caterham C21 vs. 1995 Mercury Mystique
To start off, 1998 Caterham C21 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 Mercury Mystique. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 Mercury Mystique would be higher. At 1,989 cc (4 cylinders), 1995 Mercury Mystique is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 Mercury Mystique (129 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1998 Caterham C21. (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1995 Mercury Mystique should accelerate faster than 1998 Caterham C21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 Mercury Mystique weights approximately 592 kg more than 1998 Caterham C21. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 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 1998 Caterham C21. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1995 Mercury Mystique, 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, 1995 Mercury Mystique (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Caterham C21. (146 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1995 Mercury Mystique will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Caterham C21.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Caterham C21 | 1995 Mercury Mystique | |
| Make | Caterham | Mercury |
| Model | C21 | Mystique |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1995 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1989 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 650 kg | 1242 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2710 mm |
