1998 Caterham C21 vs. 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Caterham C21. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Caterham C21 would be higher. At 1,835 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata (178 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 1998 Caterham C21. (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1998 Caterham C21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 497 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.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata (220 Nm) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Caterham C21. (146 Nm). This means 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Caterham C21.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Caterham C21 | 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Caterham | Mazda |
| Model | C21 | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1835 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 178 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 85 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 650 kg | 1147 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2270 mm |
