2004 Caterham 7 vs. 2002 Mitsubishi Magna
To start off, 2004 Caterham 7 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Mitsubishi Magna. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mitsubishi Magna would be higher. At 2,351 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Mitsubishi Magna is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Caterham 7 (251 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 109 more horse power than 2002 Mitsubishi Magna. (142 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 2002 Mitsubishi Magna. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mitsubishi Magna weights approximately 900 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, 2002 Mitsubishi Magna, 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 53 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mitsubishi Magna. (205 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Caterham 7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mitsubishi Magna. 2002 Mitsubishi Magna has automatic transmission and 2004 Caterham 7 has manual transmission. 2004 Caterham 7 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Mitsubishi Magna will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Caterham 7 | 2002 Mitsubishi Magna | |
| Make | Caterham | Mitsubishi |
| Model | 7 | Magna |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 2351 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 251 HP | 142 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 258 Nm | 205 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 470 kg | 1370 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2730 mm |
