2000 Caterham 21 vs. 1988 Mitsubishi Debonair
To start off, 2000 Caterham 21 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Mitsubishi Debonair. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Mitsubishi Debonair would be higher. At 1,998 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Mitsubishi Debonair is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Caterham 21 (230 HP @ 8600 RPM) has 112 more horse power than 1988 Mitsubishi Debonair. (118 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2000 Caterham 21 should accelerate faster than 1988 Mitsubishi Debonair. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Mitsubishi Debonair weights approximately 860 kg more than 2000 Caterham 21.
Because 2000 Caterham 21 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 2000 Caterham 21. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Mitsubishi Debonair, 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, 2000 Caterham 21 (210 Nm @ 7200 RPM) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Mitsubishi Debonair. (171 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2000 Caterham 21 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Mitsubishi Debonair. 1988 Mitsubishi Debonair has automatic transmission and 2000 Caterham 21 has manual transmission. 2000 Caterham 21 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1988 Mitsubishi Debonair will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Caterham 21 | 1988 Mitsubishi Debonair | |
| Make | Caterham | Mitsubishi |
| Model | 21 | Debonair |
| Year Released | 2000 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1794 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 230 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 171 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 7200 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 540 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 4700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1700 mm |
