2004 Caterham 7 vs. 1993 Lotus Elan
To start off, 2004 Caterham 7 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1993 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1993 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Caterham 7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Caterham 7 (251 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 87 more horse power than 1993 Lotus Elan. (164 HP @ 6600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 1993 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1993 Lotus Elan weights approximately 550 kg more than 2004 Caterham 7.
Because 2004 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 2004 Caterham 7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1993 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, 2004 Caterham 7 (258 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 54 more torque (in Nm) than 1993 Lotus Elan. (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2004 Caterham 7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1993 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
2004 Caterham 7 | 1993 Lotus Elan | |
Make | Caterham | Lotus |
Model | 7 | Elan |
Year Released | 2004 | 1993 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1588 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 251 HP | 164 HP |
Engine RPM | 8000 RPM | 6600 RPM |
Torque | 258 Nm | 204 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 470 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 |