2003 Caterham 7 vs. 1991 Lotus Elan
To start off, 2003 Caterham 7 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,794 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Caterham 7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Lotus Elan (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 2003 Caterham 7. (160 HP @ 7500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1991 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 2003 Caterham 7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Lotus Elan weights approximately 520 kg more than 2003 Caterham 7. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1991 Lotus Elan, 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, 1991 Lotus Elan (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Caterham 7. (176 Nm @ 5750 RPM). This means 1991 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Caterham 7.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Caterham 7 | 1991 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Caterham | Lotus |
| Model | 7 | Elan |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1991 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1794 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7500 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 204 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5750 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 500 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2260 mm |
