1991 Caterham Super 7 vs. 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse
To start off, 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Caterham Super 7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Caterham Super 7 would be higher. At 2,350 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse (145 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1991 Caterham Super 7. (120 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse should accelerate faster than 1991 Caterham Super 7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse weights approximately 780 kg more than 1991 Caterham Super 7. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1991 Caterham Super 7 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 1991 Caterham Super 7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse (214 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 71 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Caterham Super 7. (143 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Caterham Super 7.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Caterham Super 7 | 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse | |
| Make | Caterham | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Super 7 | Eclipse |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1599 cc | 2350 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 145 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 143 Nm | 214 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 87.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.6 mm | 100 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 510 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3380 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 36 L | 62 L |
