1996 Caterham 7 vs. 1985 Mitsubishi Magna
To start off, 1996 Caterham 7 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mitsubishi Magna. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mitsubishi Magna would be higher. At 2,555 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Mitsubishi Magna is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Caterham 7 (138 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 1985 Mitsubishi Magna. (111 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 1985 Mitsubishi Magna. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Mitsubishi Magna weights approximately 847 kg more than 1996 Caterham 7.
Because 1996 Caterham 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 1996 Caterham 7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 Mitsubishi Magna, 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, 1985 Mitsubishi Magna (195 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Caterham 7. (156 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1985 Mitsubishi Magna will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Caterham 7.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Caterham 7 | 1985 Mitsubishi Magna | |
| Make | Caterham | Mitsubishi |
| Model | 7 | Magna |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2555 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 111 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 156 Nm | 195 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 478 kg | 1325 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2600 mm |
