1996 Caterham 7 vs. 2011 BMW 325
To start off, 2011 BMW 325 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Caterham 7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Caterham 7 would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW 325 (215 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 1996 Caterham 7. (138 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 1996 Caterham 7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW 325 weights approximately 1137 kg more than 1996 Caterham 7. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 BMW 325 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Caterham 7. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 BMW 325 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2011 BMW 325 (270 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 114 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Caterham 7. (156 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2011 BMW 325 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Caterham 7. 2011 BMW 325 has automatic transmission and 1996 Caterham 7 has manual transmission. 1996 Caterham 7 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 BMW 325 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Caterham 7 | 2011 BMW 325 | |
Make | Caterham | BMW |
Model | 7 | 325 |
Year Released | 1996 | 2011 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2494 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 215 HP |
Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6100 RPM |
Torque | 156 Nm | 270 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 12.0:1 |
Top Speed | 203 km/hour | 244 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 478 kg | 1615 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4530 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2770 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 36 L | 63 L |