1996 Caterham 7 vs. 2005 Mitsubishi Grandis
To start off, 2005 Mitsubishi Grandis 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 2,343 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Mitsubishi Grandis is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Caterham 7 (138 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 2005 Mitsubishi Grandis. (119 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 2005 Mitsubishi Grandis. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mitsubishi Grandis weights approximately 1522 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, 2005 Mitsubishi Grandis, 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, 2005 Mitsubishi Grandis (211 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Caterham 7. (156 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2005 Mitsubishi Grandis will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Caterham 7. 2005 Mitsubishi Grandis has automatic transmission and 1996 Caterham 7 has manual transmission. 1996 Caterham 7 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Mitsubishi Grandis will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Caterham 7 | 2005 Mitsubishi Grandis | |
| Make | Caterham | Mitsubishi |
| Model | 7 | Grandis |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2343 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 119 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 156 Nm | 211 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Top Speed | 203 km/hour | 200 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 6 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 478 kg | 2000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1660 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 36 L | 65 L |
