1971 BMW 3 vs. 1994 Caterham Seven
To start off, 1994 Caterham Seven is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 BMW 3 would be higher. At 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 BMW 3 (180 HP) has 15 more horse power than 1994 Caterham Seven. (165 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1971 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 1994 Caterham Seven. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 BMW 3 weights approximately 840 kg more than 1994 Caterham Seven. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1971 BMW 3 (255 Nm) has 52 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 Caterham Seven. (203 Nm). This means 1971 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1994 Caterham Seven.
Compare all specifications:
1971 BMW 3 | 1994 Caterham Seven | |
Make | BMW | Caterham |
Model | 3 | Seven |
Year Released | 1971 | 1994 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2986 cc | 1998 cc |
Horse Power | 180 HP | 165 HP |
Torque | 255 Nm | 203 Nm |
Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 86.1 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 86.1 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
Top Speed | 211 km/hour | 194 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 540 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 3400 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1580 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1090 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2240 mm |