1998 Caterham C21 vs. 2008 Mini Cooper
To start off, 2008 Mini Cooper is newer by 10 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 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mini Cooper is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mini Cooper (169 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 1998 Caterham C21. (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mini Cooper should accelerate faster than 1998 Caterham C21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mini Cooper weights approximately 665 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, 2008 Mini Cooper, 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, 2008 Mini Cooper (220 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Caterham C21. (146 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Mini Cooper will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Caterham C21.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Caterham C21 | 2008 Mini Cooper | |
| Make | Caterham | Mini |
| Model | C21 | Cooper |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 169 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 85.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 650 kg | 1315 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 3660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2470 mm |
