1996 Caterham 7 vs. 2003 Lotus Elise
To start off, 2003 Lotus Elise is newer by 7 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 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Lotus Elise is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Caterham 7 (138 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 2003 Lotus Elise. (121 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 2003 Lotus Elise. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Lotus Elise weights approximately 272 kg more than 1996 Caterham 7.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 Lotus Elise (175 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Caterham 7. (156 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2003 Lotus Elise will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Caterham 7.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Caterham 7 | 2003 Lotus Elise | |
Make | Caterham | Lotus |
Model | 7 | Elise |
Year Released | 1996 | 2003 |
Engine Position | Front | Middle |
Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1796 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 121 HP |
Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 156 Nm | 175 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 478 kg | 750 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 3790 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1150 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2310 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 36 L | 31 L |