1996 Caterham 7 vs. 2000 Mitsubishi Lancer
To start off, 2000 Mitsubishi Lancer is newer by 4 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 1,597 cc (4 cylinders), 2000 Mitsubishi Lancer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Caterham 7 (138 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 2000 Mitsubishi Lancer. (111 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 2000 Mitsubishi Lancer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Mitsubishi Lancer weights approximately 548 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, 2000 Mitsubishi Lancer, 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 19 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Mitsubishi Lancer. (137 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1996 Caterham 7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Mitsubishi Lancer.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Caterham 7 | 2000 Mitsubishi Lancer | |
| Make | Caterham | Mitsubishi |
| Model | 7 | Lancer |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2000 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 111 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 156 Nm | 137 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 478 kg | 1026 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1400 mm |
