2003 Caterham 7 vs. 1990 Mitsubishi Magna
To start off, 2003 Caterham 7 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Mitsubishi Magna. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Mitsubishi Magna would be higher. At 2,555 cc (4 cylinders), 1990 Mitsubishi Magna is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Caterham 7 (160 HP @ 7500 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 1990 Mitsubishi Magna. (114 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 1990 Mitsubishi Magna. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Mitsubishi Magna weights approximately 835 kg more than 2003 Caterham 7.
Because 2003 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 2003 Caterham 7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1990 Mitsubishi Magna, 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, 1990 Mitsubishi Magna (198 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Caterham 7. (176 Nm @ 5750 RPM). This means 1990 Mitsubishi Magna will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Caterham 7. 1990 Mitsubishi Magna has automatic transmission and 2003 Caterham 7 has manual transmission. 2003 Caterham 7 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1990 Mitsubishi Magna will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Caterham 7 | 1990 Mitsubishi Magna | |
| Make | Caterham | Mitsubishi |
| Model | 7 | Magna |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1794 cc | 2555 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 198 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 500 kg | 1335 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2730 mm |
