1996 BMW 520 vs. 1986 Caterham 1700
To start off, 1996 BMW 520 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Caterham 1700. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Caterham 1700 would be higher. At 1,990 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Caterham 1700 (168 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1996 BMW 520. (150 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Caterham 1700 should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 520.
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:
| 1996 BMW 520 | 1986 Caterham 1700 | |
| Make | BMW | Caterham |
| Model | 520 | 1700 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1990 cc | 1692 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 188 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 3390 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1050 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2260 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 36 L |
