1998 Caterham C21 vs. 2006 BMW 523
To start off, 2006 BMW 523 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Caterham C21. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Caterham C21 would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 BMW 523 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW 523 (175 HP) has 60 more horse power than 1998 Caterham C21. (115 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW 523 should accelerate faster than 1998 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, 2006 BMW 523 (230 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 84 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Caterham C21. (146 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 BMW 523 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Caterham C21. 2006 BMW 523 has automatic transmission and 1998 Caterham C21 has manual transmission. 1998 Caterham C21 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 BMW 523 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Caterham C21 | 2006 BMW 523 | |
Make | Caterham | BMW |
Model | C21 | 523 |
Year Released | 1998 | 2006 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2497 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 115 HP | 175 HP |
Torque | 146 Nm | 230 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4850 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1850 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1500 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2840 mm |