1996 Caterham 7 vs. 1998 Mitsubishi Space Star
To start off, 1998 Mitsubishi Space Star is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Caterham 7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Caterham 7 would be higher. At 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Caterham 7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Caterham 7 (138 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 1998 Mitsubishi Space Star. (97 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mitsubishi Space Star. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mitsubishi Space Star weights approximately 672 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, 1998 Mitsubishi Space Star, 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, 1996 Caterham 7 (156 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mitsubishi Space Star. (150 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 Caterham 7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mitsubishi Space Star.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Caterham 7 | 1998 Mitsubishi Space Star | |
| Make | Caterham | Mitsubishi |
| Model | 7 | Space Star |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1584 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 97 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 156 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 478 kg | 1150 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1570 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2510 mm |
