1996 Caterham 7 vs. 2003 Mitsubishi Outlander
To start off, 2003 Mitsubishi Outlander 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 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mitsubishi Outlander is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Caterham 7 (138 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 2003 Mitsubishi Outlander. (134 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 2003 Mitsubishi Outlander. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mitsubishi Outlander weights approximately 1112 kg more than 1996 Caterham 7.
Because 2003 Mitsubishi Outlander is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Caterham 7. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Mitsubishi Outlander will offer significantly more control. 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 Outlander (176 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Caterham 7. (156 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2003 Mitsubishi Outlander will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Caterham 7.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Caterham 7 | 2003 Mitsubishi Outlander | |
| Make | Caterham | Mitsubishi |
| Model | 7 | Outlander |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 156 Nm | 176 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 478 kg | 1590 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1680 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 36 L | 60 L |
