1990 BMW 316 vs. 1997 Caterham C21
To start off, 1997 Caterham C21 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 BMW 316 would be higher. At 1,596 cc (4 cylinders), 1990 BMW 316 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Caterham C21 (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1990 BMW 316. (100 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Caterham C21 should accelerate faster than 1990 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 BMW 316 weights approximately 430 kg more than 1997 Caterham C21.
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, 1997 Caterham C21 (145 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW 316. (141 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1997 Caterham C21 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
1990 BMW 316 | 1997 Caterham C21 | |
Make | BMW | Caterham |
Model | 316 | C21 |
Year Released | 1990 | 1997 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1587 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 100 HP | 115 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 141 Nm | 145 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 650 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 3810 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1590 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1060 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2260 mm |