1997 Caterham C21 vs. 2012 BMW 325
To start off, 2012 BMW 325 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Caterham C21. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Caterham C21 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW 325 (217 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 102 more horse power than 1997 Caterham C21. (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW 325 should accelerate faster 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, 2012 BMW 325 (450 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 305 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Caterham C21. (145 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 BMW 325 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Caterham C21.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Caterham C21 | 2012 BMW 325 | |
Make | Caterham | BMW |
Model | C21 | 325 |
Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1587 cc | 1995 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 115 HP | 217 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Torque | 145 Nm | 450 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 90 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 84 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4624 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1811 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1384 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2810 mm |