2004 Caterham 7 vs. 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer
To start off, 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Caterham 7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Caterham 7 would be higher. At 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Caterham 7 (251 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 83 more horse power than 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer. (168 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer weights approximately 935 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, 2012 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, 2004 Caterham 7 (258 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer. (226 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 2004 Caterham 7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Caterham 7 | 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer | |
| Make | Caterham | Mitsubishi |
| Model | 7 | Lancer |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 251 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 258 Nm | 226 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | CVT |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 470 kg | 1405 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4582 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1763 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1516 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2634 mm |
