2003 Caterham 7 vs. 2004 Mitsubishi Eclipse
To start off, 2004 Mitsubishi Eclipse is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Caterham 7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Caterham 7 would be higher. At 2,376 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mitsubishi Eclipse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Caterham 7 (160 HP @ 7500 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 2004 Mitsubishi Eclipse. (147 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 2004 Mitsubishi Eclipse. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mitsubishi Eclipse weights approximately 820 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, 2004 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, 2004 Mitsubishi Eclipse (214 Nm) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Caterham 7. (176 Nm). This means 2004 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 | 2004 Mitsubishi Eclipse | |
| Make | Caterham | Mitsubishi |
| Model | 7 | Eclipse |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1794 cc | 2376 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 147 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 214 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89.3 mm | 100 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 500 kg | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2610 mm |
