2000 Caterham C21 vs. 2004 Mitsubishi Eclipse
To start off, 2004 Mitsubishi Eclipse is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2000 Caterham C21. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2000 Caterham C21 would be higher. At 2,966 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Mitsubishi Eclipse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mitsubishi Eclipse (210 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 95 more horse power than 2000 Caterham C21. (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mitsubishi Eclipse should accelerate faster than 2000 Caterham C21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mitsubishi Eclipse weights approximately 845 kg more than 2000 Caterham C21. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2000 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 2000 Caterham C21. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Mitsubishi Eclipse (278 Nm) has 133 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Caterham C21. (145 Nm). This means 2004 Mitsubishi Eclipse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Caterham C21.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Caterham C21 | 2004 Mitsubishi Eclipse | |
| Make | Caterham | Mitsubishi |
| Model | C21 | Eclipse |
| Year Released | 2000 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 278 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 76 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 650 kg | 1495 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2630 mm |
