1981 BMW 725 vs. 1986 Caterham 1700
To start off, 1986 Caterham 1700 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 BMW 725. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 BMW 725 would be higher. At 2,493 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 BMW 725 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Caterham 1700 (168 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1981 BMW 725. (148 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Caterham 1700 should accelerate faster than 1981 BMW 725.
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:
| 1981 BMW 725 | 1986 Caterham 1700 | |
| Make | BMW | Caterham |
| Model | 725 | 1700 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2493 cc | 1692 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.6:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 3390 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1050 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2260 mm |
