1998 BMW 317 vs. 2002 Caterham Superlight R
To start off, 2002 Caterham Superlight R is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 317. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 317 would be higher. At 1,795 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Caterham Superlight R is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Caterham Superlight R (190 HP @ 7500 RPM) has 101 more horse power than 1998 BMW 317. (89 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Caterham Superlight R should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 317. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 317 weights approximately 865 kg more than 2002 Caterham Superlight R.
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, 2002 Caterham Superlight R (203 Nm @ 5750 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 317. (190 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2002 Caterham Superlight R will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 317.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 317 | 2002 Caterham Superlight R | |
| Make | BMW | Caterham |
| Model | 317 | Superlight R |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1665 cc | 1795 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 7500 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1355 kg | 490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 3110 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 810 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2230 mm |
