2003 Caterham 7 vs. 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse
To start off, 2003 Caterham 7 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse would be higher. At 2,972 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse (208 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 2003 Caterham 7. (160 HP @ 7500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse should accelerate faster than 2003 Caterham 7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse weights approximately 850 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, 1999 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, 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse (279 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 103 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Caterham 7. (176 Nm @ 5750 RPM). This means 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Caterham 7.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Caterham 7 | 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse | |
| Make | Caterham | Mitsubishi |
| Model | 7 | Eclipse |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1794 cc | 2972 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 208 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7500 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 279 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5750 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89.3 mm | 76 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 500 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2570 mm |
