1972 BMW 3 vs. 1986 Caterham 1700
To start off, 1986 Caterham 1700 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 BMW 3 would be higher. At 3,003 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 BMW 3 (197 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 1986 Caterham 1700. (168 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 1986 Caterham 1700.
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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 BMW 3 | 1986 Caterham 1700 | |
| Make | BMW | Caterham |
| Model | 3 | 1700 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3003 cc | 1692 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 214 km/hour | 188 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 3390 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1050 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2260 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 36 L |
