2000 Caterham 21 vs. 1996 Mazda 121
To start off, 2000 Caterham 21 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mazda 121. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mazda 121 would be higher. At 1,794 cc (4 cylinders), 2000 Caterham 21 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Caterham 21 (230 HP @ 8600 RPM) has 171 more horse power than 1996 Mazda 121. (59 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2000 Caterham 21 should accelerate faster than 1996 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mazda 121 weights approximately 524 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, 1996 Mazda 121, 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 100 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda 121. (110 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2000 Caterham 21 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Caterham 21 | 1996 Mazda 121 | |
| Make | Caterham | Mazda |
| Model | 21 | 121 |
| Year Released | 2000 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1794 cc | 1753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 230 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8600 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 7200 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 540 kg | 1064 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 3830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1640 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2460 mm |
