2004 Caterham 7 vs. 2002 Lotus Elise
To start off, 2004 Caterham 7 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Lotus Elise. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Lotus Elise would be higher. At 2,261 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Caterham 7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Caterham 7 (200 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 2002 Lotus Elise. (156 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 2002 Lotus Elise. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Lotus Elise weights approximately 266 kg more than 2004 Caterham 7.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 (224 Nm @ 5750 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Lotus Elise. (180 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2004 Caterham 7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Lotus Elise.
Compare all specifications:
2004 Caterham 7 | 2002 Lotus Elise | |
Make | Caterham | Lotus |
Model | 7 | Elise |
Year Released | 2004 | 2002 |
Engine Position | Front | Middle |
Engine Size | 2261 cc | 1796 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 200 HP | 156 HP |
Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
Torque | 224 Nm | 180 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5750 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 87.6 mm | 80 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 89.3 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 540 kg | 806 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3310 mm | 3790 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1150 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2310 mm |