1998 BMW 323 vs. 2003 Caterham 7
To start off, 2003 Caterham 7 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 323 would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 BMW 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Caterham 7 (200 HP @ 7500 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1998 BMW 323. (170 HP @ 7400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 323 weights approximately 1057 kg more than 2003 Caterham 7.
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, 1998 BMW 323 (246 Nm) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Caterham 7. (210 Nm). This means 1998 BMW 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Caterham 7.
Compare all specifications:
1998 BMW 323 | 2003 Caterham 7 | |
Make | BMW | Caterham |
Model | 323 | 7 |
Year Released | 1998 | 2003 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2494 cc | 1796 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 170 HP | 200 HP |
Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 7500 RPM |
Torque | 246 Nm | 210 Nm |
Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 80.1 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 74.9 mm | 89.3 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1547 kg | 490 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 3110 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1580 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 810 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2230 mm |