1992 BMW 540 vs. 2004 Caterham 7

To start off, 2004 Caterham 7 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1992 BMW 540. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1992 BMW 540 would be higher. At 3,980 cc (8 cylinders), 1992 BMW 540 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1992 BMW 540 (282 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 2004 Caterham 7. (251 HP @ 8000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1992 BMW 540 should accelerate faster than 2004 Caterham 7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1992 BMW 540 weights approximately 1180 kg more than 2004 Caterham 7. 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, 1992 BMW 540 (400 Nm @ 5100 RPM) has 142 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Caterham 7. (258 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1992 BMW 540 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Caterham 7.

Compare all specifications:

1992 BMW 540 2004 Caterham 7
Make BMW Caterham
Model 540 7
Year Released 1992 2004
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3980 cc 1997 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 282 HP 251 HP
Engine RPM 5800 RPM 8000 RPM
Torque 400 Nm 258 Nm
Torque RPM 5100 RPM 4000 RPM
Drive Type Rear Rear
Number of Seats 5 seats 2 seats
Vehicle Weight 1650 kg 470 kg
Vehicle Length 4730 mm 3110 mm
Vehicle Width 1760 mm 1580 mm
Vehicle Height 1420 mm 810 mm
Wheelbase Size 2770 mm 2230 mm


 

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