1996 Caterham 7 vs. 2005 Lotus Elise
To start off, 2005 Lotus Elise is newer by 9 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), 2005 Lotus Elise is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Lotus Elise (190 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1996 Caterham 7. (138 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1996 Caterham 7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Lotus Elise weights approximately 418 kg more than 1996 Caterham 7. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2005 Lotus Elise (187 Nm) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Caterham 7. (156 Nm). This means 2005 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 | 2005 Lotus Elise | |
| Make | Caterham | Lotus |
| Model | 7 | Elise |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2005 |
| 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 | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 8000 RPM |
| Torque | 156 Nm | 187 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 478 kg | 896 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 |
