2003 Caterham 7 vs. 2006 Mitsubishi Lancer
To start off, 2006 Mitsubishi Lancer is newer by 3 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 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mitsubishi Lancer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Caterham 7 (200 HP @ 7500 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 2006 Mitsubishi Lancer. (120 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 2006 Mitsubishi Lancer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mitsubishi Lancer weights approximately 716 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, 2006 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 (210 Nm @ 5750 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mitsubishi Lancer. (176 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2003 Caterham 7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mitsubishi Lancer.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Caterham 7 | 2006 Mitsubishi Lancer | |
| Make | Caterham | Mitsubishi |
| Model | 7 | Lancer |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 176 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5750 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 490 kg | 1206 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2610 mm |
