1996 Caterham 7 vs. 2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse
To start off, 2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse is newer by 16 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 3,800 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse (265 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 127 more horse power than 1996 Caterham 7. (138 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse should accelerate faster than 1996 Caterham 7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse weights approximately 1229 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.
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, 2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse, 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, 2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse (355 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 199 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Caterham 7. (156 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Caterham 7. 2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse 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. 2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Caterham 7 | 2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse | |
Make | Caterham | Mitsubishi |
Model | 7 | Eclipse |
Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1588 cc | 3800 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 265 HP |
Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5750 RPM |
Torque | 156 Nm | 355 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed shiftable automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 478 kg | 1707 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4582 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1834 mm |
Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1374 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2576 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 36 L | 67 L |