2003 Caterham 7 vs. 1999 Mitsubishi Lancer
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 Lancer. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Mitsubishi Lancer would be higher. At 1,794 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Caterham 7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Caterham 7 (160 HP @ 7500 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1999 Mitsubishi Lancer. (111 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 1999 Mitsubishi Lancer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mitsubishi Lancer weights approximately 525 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, 1999 Mitsubishi Lancer, 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, 2003 Caterham 7 (176 Nm @ 5750 RPM) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Mitsubishi Lancer. (137 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2003 Caterham 7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Mitsubishi Lancer.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Caterham 7 | 1999 Mitsubishi Lancer | |
| Make | Caterham | Mitsubishi |
| Model | 7 | Lancer |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1794 cc | 1597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 111 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 137 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5750 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 500 kg | 1025 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1400 mm |
