2002 Caterham Superlight R vs. 1991 Mazda 121
To start off, 2002 Caterham Superlight R is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Mazda 121. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Mazda 121 would be higher. At 1,795 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Caterham Superlight R is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Caterham Superlight R (190 HP @ 7500 RPM) has 119 more horse power than 1991 Mazda 121. (71 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Caterham Superlight R should accelerate faster than 1991 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Mazda 121 weights approximately 410 kg more than 2002 Caterham Superlight R.
Because 2002 Caterham Superlight R 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 2002 Caterham Superlight R. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 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, 2002 Caterham Superlight R (203 Nm @ 5750 RPM) has 99 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Mazda 121. (104 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2002 Caterham Superlight R will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Caterham Superlight R | 1991 Mazda 121 | |
| Make | Caterham | Mazda |
| Model | Superlight R | 121 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1991 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1795 cc | 1323 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 104 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5750 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 155 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 490 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 3820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2400 mm |
