1987 BMW 316 vs. 1996 Caterham 7
To start off, 1996 Caterham 7 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 BMW 316 would be higher. At 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Caterham 7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Caterham 7 (138 HP) has 52 more horse power than 1987 BMW 316. (86 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 1987 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 BMW 316 weights approximately 592 kg more than 1996 Caterham 7.
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, 1996 Caterham 7 (156 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 BMW 316. (123 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 Caterham 7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
1987 BMW 316 | 1996 Caterham 7 | |
Make | BMW | Caterham |
Model | 316 | 7 |
Year Released | 1987 | 1996 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1571 cc | 1588 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 86 HP | 138 HP |
Torque | 123 Nm | 156 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1070 kg | 478 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 3110 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1580 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 810 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2240 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 36 L |