2000 Caterham 21 vs. 2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse
To start off, 2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2000 Caterham 21. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2000 Caterham 21 would be higher. At 3,800 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse (265 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 2000 Caterham 21. (230 HP @ 8600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse should accelerate faster than 2000 Caterham 21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse weights approximately 1167 kg more than 2000 Caterham 21. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse, 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, 2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse (355 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 145 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Caterham 21. (210 Nm @ 7200 RPM). This means 2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Caterham 21. 2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse 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. 2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Caterham 21 | 2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse | |
| Make | Caterham | Mitsubishi |
| Model | 21 | Eclipse |
| Year Released | 2000 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1794 cc | 3800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 230 HP | 265 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8600 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 355 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 7200 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 540 kg | 1707 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 4582 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1834 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2576 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 100 L | 67 L |
