1999 BMW 323 vs. 1994 Caterham Seven
To start off, 1999 BMW 323 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1994 Caterham Seven. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1994 Caterham Seven would be higher. At 2,492 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 BMW 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 BMW 323 (170 HP) has 5 more horse power than 1994 Caterham Seven. (165 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1999 BMW 323 should accelerate faster than 1994 Caterham Seven. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 BMW 323 weights approximately 917 kg more than 1994 Caterham Seven. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1999 BMW 323 (245 Nm) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 Caterham Seven. (203 Nm). This means 1999 BMW 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1994 Caterham Seven. 1999 BMW 323 has automatic transmission and 1994 Caterham Seven has manual transmission. 1994 Caterham Seven will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 BMW 323 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 BMW 323 | 1994 Caterham Seven | |
| Make | BMW | Caterham |
| Model | 323 | Seven |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1994 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2492 cc | 1998 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 165 HP |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 206 km/hour | 194 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1457 kg | 540 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 3400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1090 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2240 mm |
